Bushmeat Haul Seized: Pangolins & More Found

In a significant operation targeting illegal food imports, authorities in Deptford, south-east London, have confiscated approximately 38kg of frozen bushmeat. The seized items included critically endangered pangolins, cane rats, and porcupines, underscoring the illicit trade's diverse and often protected wildlife targets. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Metropolitan Police led the raid on December 5, resulting in the arrest of a 57-year-old man, who was later released under investigation.

The FSA emphasized that illegally imported meat bypasses the stringent safety and hygiene standards required for food sold within the UK. This lack of regulation means such products can carry dangerous diseases and contaminants, posing a substantial risk to public health. The agency strongly advises consumers against purchasing or consuming bushmeat and other illicitly imported meat products due to these severe health concerns.

This seizure is part of ongoing efforts by the FSA's National Food Crime Unit to dismantle illegal meat trading networks. The unit continues its inquiries into the matter. Consumers with concerns about potentially unsafe food products being sold are encouraged to contact their local authorities for reporting and further action.