Animal rights groups have claimed preliminary investigations showed Beluga Whale Hvaldimir, which was recently found dead off the Norwegian coast, was 'killed by gunshot wounds'.

The animal was nicknamed Hvaldimir, combining the words 'hval' meaning 'whale' and the name of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The body of the whale was found floating off the south-western town of Risavika.

It is often suspected that whale was trained by Russia to act as a spy.

OneWhale and NOAH, two prominent animal rights organizations, have filed a police report in connection with death of Hvaldimir.

"The report has been submitted to the Sandnes Police District and the Norwegian National Authority for Investigation and Prosecution of Economic and Environmental Crime (Økokrim)," read a statement issued by the two organisations.

The two organisations claims several veterinarians, biologists, and ballistics experts have reviewed photographic evidence, including close-ups of Hvaldimir’s injuries.

Their assessments strongly suggest that the whale’s death was the result of a criminal act, prompting the need for immediate police involvement.

“The injuries on the whale are alarming and of a nature that cannot rule out a criminal act—it is shocking. Given the suspicion of a criminal act, it is crucial that the police are involved quickly. Hvaldimir was significant to many, and all facts must be brought to light regarding his death,” said Siri Martinsen, veterinarian and leader of NOAH. 

Regina Haug, founder of OneWhale, expressed her devastation and said: “I have been with Hvaldimir for the past five years and know him very well. When I saw his body and the multiple injuries, I immediately knew he had been killed by gunshots."

"I even saw a bullet lodged in his body. There is no question that this kind, gentle animal was senselessly murdered. We will pursue justice for Hvaldimir and hope that someone comes forward with information about his killing,” she said.

“There were many obstacles that prevented his move from happening sooner, including bureaucratic processes, poorly defined laws, misinformation, and sadly, attempts by other organizations to block his move. Despite this, we were so close to finally getting Hvaldimir to safer waters and giving him a chance at a sustainable future. Our worst fears came true when his young life was cut short. Our hope is that Hvaldimir’s tragedy will be a lesson and never be repeated,” Haug added.