News

Metropolitan Police seize exotic fish

29 October 2007 / Metropolitan Police

The Met's Wildlife Crime Unit (WCU) successfully seized a shipment of a live Arowana fish in east London. Working closely with Redbridge Borough Police, HMRC and the National Wildlife Crime Unit, officers from the London-based unit, searched an address in Barkingside where eleven live Arowana fish were seized.

These endangered fish are worth up to £2,000 each and are much sought-after by aquariums and keepers of exotic fish. Owning such a fish is considered to bring good fortune in parts of the far east. The fish seized are about 18 inches long, but can grow considerably larger depending on the exact Arowana species.

Acting on information that the fish has been imported by from Singapore by air, the raid was made at the home address of a dealer who specialises in selling exotic species for fish collectors.

Andy Fisher, head of the Met's Wildlife Crime Unit, said: "Today's seizure is part of Operation Charm and highlights that the trade in endangered species happens here in London and is international in its nature."

"The recovery of live animals is extremely rare, but the law applies in the same way to endangered species in any form."

"While dealers are at the forefront of ensuring that the trade in these types of animals does not take place, a great responsibly also rests with the public. It is also illegal to buy as well as sell an endangered species. The public needs to be aware of all types of endangered species and report any information on illegal trade to the police."

The man has been released on bail.

The seizure forms part of Operation Charm, the Met's ongoing initiative against the illegal trade in endangered species in London. Operation Charm is the only ongoing police initiative against this trade in the UK and, since its launch in 1995, has led to the seizure of over 30,000 items made from endangered species.