The government of Peru said it might restrict shark fishing to stop the illegal slaughter of up to 15,000 dolphins per year. The dolphins are used as bait by fisherman.
The statement was made in response to the the release of footage documenting the practice.
A government investigation into the process should be completed by mid-2014.
“We will pursue those committing these crimes,” Deputy Minister of Fisheries Paul Phumpiu told reporters. “We are considering all forms of action, from bans and restrictions to – in extreme cases – the prohibition of (shark) commercialization.”
A video taken by NGO Mundo Azul shows Peruvian fisherman harpooning dolphins, whose capture is banned under Peruvian law, before skinning and throwing their bloodied parts back into the ocean to lure sharks.
Mako and other shark species are sold legally for export, especially to Asian countries who consume their fins as a delicacy.