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Viral Video of Divers Harassing a Whale Shark Leads to Reported Arrest

Scuba divers in Indonesia's Cenderawasih Bay can be seen riding the endangered whale shark underwater.
By Andy Zunz | Published On August 17, 2018
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Viral Video of Divers Harassing a Whale Shark Leads to Reported Arrest

A viral video of scuba divers apparently riding and harassing a whale shark sparked outrage and, reportedly, an arrest.

The video was first shared by Akhadi “Kaka” Wira Satriaji, frontman for one of Indonesia's most popular rock bands, Slank. The video sparked outrage and concern initially, with Cenderawasih Bay National Park responding with its recommended procedures for interacting with whale sharks.

Fisheries Minister Susi Pudjiastuti initially noted that the actions are prohibited in the park and later told Indonesian publication Medcom that the culprits have been "captured." The identity of the divers has not been released. It's not clear what charged or penalties they will face.