HAGATNA, Guam (23 July 2004) -- Two men were indicted on federal charges yesterday for allegedly attempting to export shark fins. The indictment charges that on or about July 13, 2004, Conchito M. Cagas Jr., and Cresento P. Bacaling did unlawfully and knowingly attempt to export shark fins, according to a release from the U.S. Attorney's Office. The Shark Finning Prohibition Act prohibits what is commonly known as "shark-finning," where people catch sharks, cut off their fins and throw the animal back into the ocean to die, the release said. The fins are considered a delicacy and are sold for high prices to restaurants, the release said. | | The District Court issued a summons for Cagas and Bacaling, who are in custody. Their arraignment is scheduled for 11 a.m. July 26 at the District Court of Guam. Karon V. Johnson, assistant U.S. attorney, is handling the case and is being assisted by Special Agent Al Samuels, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries, the Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency-Maritime Interdiction Task Force, and the Guam Port Authority Police, the release said. SOURCE - Pacific Daily News |
