Wildlife criminals linked to violent crime, drugs and firearms, study claims

Police say offences against animals ‘not seen as important’ for forces as research finds ‘disturbing connection’ with other crimes

Stag hunting is still carried out in the UK (Cmon Photography)

Criminals who commit offences against wildlife are often linked to violent crime, drugs and firearms offences, a new study has claimed.

Academics warn that criminal gangs are diversifying from activities such as drug or human trafficking into the illegal wildlife trade, because they consider the risk of being caught low and profits high.

Wildlife crime includes a broad range of offences including the poaching of deer and fish, badger baiting, hare coursing and the ivory trade.