It is estimated that at least 10,000 Blue sharks (Prionace glauca), also known as Mako, were killed.

According to IBAMA´s press release, the seizure can be considered as the largest ever reported worldwide, as it was carried out at the spot where sharks were caught.

Most of the cargo (27.6 tons of shark fins) was found in a single exporting company in the southern state of Santa Catarina.

The remaining was found at a company inspected by prosecutors at Guarulhos airport in Sao Paulo.

Shark fishing is banned in Brazil.

Shark fins are a product highly appreciated by the Asian market, used to prepare soups, for example. 1 kg of shark fin can cost up to $1,000 in East Asian markets, according to the non-governmental organization Wildlife Conservation Society.

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