A businessman is appealing a Samoa District Court conviction for the unlawful processing of sea cucumbers for export.
Photo: Copyright: aquafun / 123RF Stock Photo
Chen Pao was found guilty earlier this year of operating a processing plant for sea cucumbers without a license, Newsline Samoa reports.
District Court Judge Fepulea'i Ameperosa Roma also found Pao guilty of one count of operating a plant for export purposes.
The matter is now with the court after an appeal was lodged by the defense counsel.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries launched a joint investigation earlier in the year into reports that the businessman was processing sea cucumbers.
His premises at Savalalo and Fugalei, where he runs a hotel and restaurant, were searched by authorities which led to charges being laid.
A ban has been in place around the country for the fishing of sea cucumbers for the purpose of exporting.
There is a huge demand for sea cucumbers in China, where they are a delicacy in Chinese cuisine, fetching huge prices.