Victory: Private Docks Closed to shark finners in Costa Rica
In an action considered late in coming by Costa Rican conservationists, the Costa Rican Customs Department has decided, as of 22nd Novemner 2004, to halt landings of fishery products by international flag vessels at the private docks of Puntarenas, until they comply with domestic laws. The decision represents a small victory for PRETOMA, who has for two years filed legal complaints regarding the illegal use of the private docks of Puntarenas to land shark fins.