Tragedy of live dolphins trade

With their playful spirit and remarkable intelligence, dolphins have long had an affinity with man.

Until now, the biggest threat to the mammals has been from fishermen, whose huge nets trap thousands of the animals every year. But now an ominous new enemy is growing in strength.

More than 200 bottlenose dolphins are being transported from the Solomon Islands to Mexico in shallow, coffin-like containers.

They are destined for Cancun, where aquatic parks have paid £100,000 an animal. Local fishermen received just £40 for each dolphin caught.

Those behind the controversial deal could not have picked a higher-profile time to transport the animals. Journalists are camped in the Solomon capital, Honiara, to await the arrival of an Australian-led intervention force.

The Pacific islands are increasingly lawless and the 2,000-strong force will help to restore order. Police blockaded the islands' main airport yesterday, to keep journalists away, before the arrival of a DC-10 to fly the dolphins out.

Australia's environment minister has asked both sides to halt the dolphin sale, saying it is cruel and illegal.

But Mexico rejected the call, saying Parque Nizuc - the Cancun marine park behind the operation - has all the correct documentation. And, with the Solomons slipping into anarchy, pinning down those responsible is impossible.

Britain's envoy to the islands, Brian Baldwin, said the profits to be made meant high-ranking officials would be involved. 'That sort of money would have inevitably attracted some big players here,' he added.