Six tons of shark fins seized in Panama

The Panamian National Police seized more than six tons of shark fins, which are highly prized for a popular soup in East Asia, in an operation in which five people were arrested, officials said.

The discovery occurred in the community of La Pita, in the district of Capira, about 60 kilometers west of Panama City.

A kilo of fins can cost up to $1,000 in East Asian markets. According to a popular belief, fin soup is used to slow down aging, improve appetite, help memory and stimulate sexual desire.