South Yorkshire Police has confirmed the execution of a warrant relating to the illegal wildlife trade of birds’ eggs in the Thurnscoe area, whereby a 57-year-old man was subsequently arrested in connection with it.
The operation was supported by the National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU), as part of a wider operation, coordinated in the UK by the NWCU to tackle international organised illegal wildlife trade, specifically the taking, possessing, and trading of wild bird’s eggs.
To conduct the investigation, the NWCU worked alongside South Yorkshire Police’s motorcycle and rural crime team, neighbourhood officers and other specialists, including search officers and digital media investigators.
Illegal wildlife trade
Detective inspector Harrison from NWCU said: “The taking, possessing, and trading of wild bird eggs is illegal and overall, it is believed that these crimes are less common than they were.
“However, clearly it still goes on and as the overall number of birds is declining it can be argued that this crime has an even greater impact now than it did years ago. These criminals are very well organised and connected.
“The rarer a species is, the higher its demand and value to these criminals. Policing is under pressure now with competing demands and priorities.
“In amongst that work, it is important that we can still take action to protect our wildlife. The investigation is ongoing and there is more work to do but this sends out a strong message to all wildlife criminals.”
According to the UN office on drugs and crimes and contrary to public knowledge, wildlife trafficking is widely responsible for local and/or global extinction of wildlife species such as rare orchids, succulent plants, reptiles, fish, birds, and mammals.
Aside from the direct threat posed to the species’ population, wildlife trafficking can also disrupt the balance of biodiversity in ecosystems – including their ability to help stabilize the climate and mitigate climate change.
It also exacerbates the levels of money laundering, black market dealings and corruption within a society.
Chief inspector Peter Spratt added: “This warrant is just one example of the ongoing work to strengthen our fight against both wildlife and rural crime.
“We have invested in training over 40 additional officers to deal with these types of offences and continue to develop better connections with rural communities and creating a stronger force against those intent on committing wildlife and rural crimes in South Yorkshire.
“To support our ongoing work, I urge anyone with information about wildlife or rural crime, or who sees any suspicious behaviour, to contact us as we are stronger with your help.”
The 57-year-old man has since been released on bail, police confirmed.
