Couple Faces Backlash for Riding Nesting Sea Turtle

A Ukrainian couple is facing international condemnation after filming themselves riding a nesting sea turtle in Ras al Hadd, Oman, a coastal area known for its sea turtle nesting sites. The footage, shared online by fitness influencer Vadym Oleynik, 32, and his partner Olena Kravchenko, a cosmetic doctor, shows them taking turns sitting on the turtle as it deposited eggs.

Despite being accompanied by environmental volunteers, the couple engaged in the behavior, which was documented and shared on Oleynik’s Instagram account, where he has over 200,000 followers. In one clip, Oleynik is seen holding a newly hatched turtle while perched on the larger animal.

The images and videos quickly drew widespread criticism on social media, with users calling the couple "scum of the earth" and demanding they be punished for animal abuse. Conservation groups also expressed dismay.

Biologicamente, an Italian conservation project, criticized the lack of oversight, stating that a "serious and professional" organization would not permit such actions. They condemned the "abhorrent level of ignorance."

Oman’s Environmental Authority confirmed that the couple’s actions violated wildlife protection laws. The authority announced it had taken "necessary legal action" against the individuals, according to local media. Such behavior can threaten sea turtles and their habitats, as these animals are vulnerable during the nesting process.

While some unverified reports suggested Oleynik and Kravchenko were detained, the fitness influencer continued to post vacation photos. Oleynik, who also identifies as a Master of Sport in combat sambo, has since issued an apology, claiming he was misled by the environmental organization and did not intend to harm the turtle. "I made a mistake and apologize to everyone," he stated.