probably not from local fishermen.

Environment Minister Arthur Hodgson said the nylon nets which snared a 30-foot young Humpbacked whale on Sunday were unlikely to have come from Bermuda's fleet.

The whale was spotted in distress close to Warwick Long Bay but was cut free and led to the ocean after a two-hour rescue mission by Marine Police and Aquarium staff.

It had become entangled in line and was dragging several marker buoys with it.

Experts believe the fishing gear had been in the sea for a considerable period when the whale swam into it.

Yesterday the Environment Minister said he believed the type of nets found on the mammal were not of the sort used in Bermuda, since most fishermen utilised lines.

BURNS PROBE CLOSED AC Burns probe closed The Smith's Parish man who suffered horrific burns following a gas explosion at his home will not be facing any criminal charges in connection with the incident.

Carlton Perinchief, 37, had to be airlifted to the US in critical condition after suffering burns to 90 percent of his body following the explosion last August. He finally returned home last November after fighting back from the brink of death.

Before his return, Police confirmed they planned to interview Mr. Perinchief about the explosion. They had already spoken to Mr. Perinchief's girlfriend, who was present when the blaze engulfed him. Reports suggested that the pair had had a violent argument just before the incident.

But yesterday a Police spokeswoman confirmed the Police investigation into the incident had been completed and no further action was necessary.

"The Police have concluded their investigation into the home explosion that occurred on August 15, 1998, which left Mr. Carlton Perinchief suffering serious burns and requiring treatment overseas,'' the spokeswoman said.

"The explosion appears to have been caused by Mr. Perinchief. There will be no further Police action in relation to this matter.'' SENTENCING POSTPONED CTS Sentencing postponed The sentencing of a barber whose attack left his victim facing possible brain damage was postponed yesterday.

Suja Amon Muhammad, of Scott's Hill Road, Sandys Parish beat 38-year-old Charles Christopher so severely on December 13 he fractured the man's skull and jaw and caused severe bruising to his body.

The altercation reportedly stemmed from a failed drug deal.

Yesterday sentencing was adjourned as Muhammad's lawyer Mark Telemaque was unavailable and a psychiatric report had not yet been presented to the court.

Senior Magistrate Will Francis also said he was awaiting the final medical assessment of Mr. Christopher.

Muhammad will next appear on January 26.

RUNNER'S WALLET TAKEN CRM Runner's wallet taken A visiting athlete had the contents of his wallet stolen while taking part in Sunday's marathon.

The 47-year-old man returned to his hotel after completing the race but only discovered the theft when he went to pay for a meal later that evening.

A quantity of cash and cards had been stolen from the wallet.

MISSING TEEN FOUND POL Missing teen found The search for a 15-year old who went missing last week has been called off after he was found safe and well.

Devario Whitter prompted a Police search after he disappeared on Thursday.

Yesterday a Police spokesman confirmed that he had been found and thanked members of the public for their assistance.