Wildlife crime in Scotland: 2019 annual report

6. Police Scotland

In October, Police Scotland commenced Operation Wingspan, a year-long wildlife crime operation that will focus on each of the six priorities in turn. The first priority addressed throughout October and November was the trade in endangered species. Around 60 officers received specialist training with regards to this crime. Officers thereafter visited business premises including antique shops, vintage clothing shops and pet shops where they distributed educational material and posters to staff and reviewed open display, seizing items they suspected may be being sold illegally.

The next phase of Operation Wingspan is Badger Persecution. During this phase, officers will receive specialist training with regards to this crime type.

The Wildlife Crime Investigators course continues to be delivered at the Scottish Police College, while updated guidance has recently been published for officers. An electronic learning package aimed at first responders to wildlife crime is currently under construction.

Further to this over 50 new Wildlife Crime Officers have been recruited nationally.