Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 3rd July 2024
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Metropolitan Police reduces wildlife crime unit
Born Free says that investment is vital for tackling wildlife crime.
Detectives are being redeployed to local crime problems.

Born Free has criticised the Metropolitan Police, after it was revealed it would be reducing the role of its Central Wildlife Crime Unit.

The wildlife conservation charity has appealed to the Metropolitan Police commissioner and the mayor of London, as detectives previously investigating wildlife crime are redeployed to cases of local crime.

Wildlife crime can include illegal hunting, animal cruelty and collecting or trading protected species. It covers crime which causes pain and suffering for animals, and may push some species closer to extinction.

These crimes can also be related to other serious crimes, including firearms offences and organised crime.

The Central Wildlife Crime Unit, formed in 2004, has worked with the National Wildlife Crime Unit and the Wildlife Trafficking team at UK Border Force. Members of the public are currently encouraged to contact the force if they believe a crime against wildlife has been committed.

Born Free says that, unchecked, wildlife crime can damage wildlife conservation and cause extreme animal suffering. It says that investment in specialised enforcement is vital to tackling these crimes.

The charity believes that the Central Wildlife Crime Unit has been an important part in tackling wildlife crime, and the reductions made to its services will make it easier for criminals to commit offences.

Dr Mark Jones, Born Free’s head of policy, said: “With the world’s wildlife in crisis, and with wildlife crime increasing across the globe, including here in the UK, the news that the Metropolitan Police plans to disband its highly effective Wildlife Crime Unit is very disturbing.”

He added: “We urge the Met Police commissioner and the mayor of London to think again.”

The Metropolitan Police were contacted for comment.

Image © Shutterstock

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

New roadshow brings free flea and tick checks to dog owners

News Story 1
 A nationwide roadshow offering free, personalised parasite risk assessments and flea and tick checks will be visiting popular dog events across the UK.

The All About Dogs shows in Norfolk and Knebworth, will be among the first events to host MSD Animal Health's Big Parasite Check campaign, which aims to address common misconceptions and highlight the importance of year-round parasite protection.

A total of six dog-friendly events will feature the free clinics from summer through to winter. Full roadshow dates and locations are available on The Big Parasite Check map or through your local MSD Animal Health Representative.  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BVA urges 'continued vigilance' over bluetongue

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has urged vigilance following a concerning rise in Bluetongue (BTV) cases in sheep and cattle.

In a recent statement, the BVA noted that members are reporting more severe clinical signs and higher mortality rates than in previous years.

'We know that farm vets are working hard to support farmers and animals affected by this outbreak, during what is an extremely difficult time for all involved,' they stated. 'Continued vigilance to identify disease early is vital and vaccination remains the best way of protecting animals from this disease.'