Inspectors and detectives from the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) arrested a 20-year-old man from North Brabant on Friday, September 12. He is suspected of large-scale illegal bird trade. During the search of his business premises, the NVWA seized 498 birds. Further investigation will determine whether these birds have a legal origin. The animals are housed at expert care addresses.
These are mainly birds that were likely captured in the wild in Africa and Asia and then smuggled into the European Union (EU). Importing birds from outside the EU is prohibited, partly due to the risk of introducing animal diseases, such as avian influenza.
Previously at Fault
Inspectors previously seized 170 birds from this trader because the origin of the birds was unclear. Investigations revealed that the birds were from abroad, but the trader could not provide accompanying documents. It also turned out that some protected birds were wearing oversized leg rings. The trader could not prove the legal origin.
Together with detectives from the NVWAs Intelligence and Investigation Service (NVWA-IOD), inspectors initiated a criminal investigation. During that investigation, it became clear that the suspect was trading birds captured on a large scale in Africa and Asia. The NVWA, under the leadership of the Functional Prosecutors Office, is further investigating the origin of the birds and the extent of the illegal trade by the suspect.
Illegal Bird Trade
There is a lively trade in birds, unfortunately also partly illegal. This involves protected native and exotic birds as well as unprotected exotic species that have been captured in the wild. Due to the way they are caught and transported, many birds die. Illegal bird trade poses a danger to biodiversity, the health of humans and animals, and causes animal suffering. Therefore, the government is tackling this illegal trade.
The NVWA calls on anyone who suspects illegal bird trade to report it. This can also be done anonymously via the Criminal Intelligence Team of the NVWA-IOD.
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