Possible loss of National Wildlife Crime Unit

Britain's National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU), which leads the fight against the burgeoning illegal wildlife trade, may be facing the axe. The National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU) is a British national police unit that gathers intelligence on wildlife crime and provides analytical and investigative support to police services.

Wildlife crime of all types is rapidly growing across the world, with elephant and rhino poaching both hitting new highs in 2012; organised crime is increasingly involved. Illegal bird trade, smuggling amphibians, raptor persecution and rhino horn are key operations.

A mere £136,000 has yet to be signed off by Home Office and funding expires 31/3/13. DEFRA have agreed their share.

If you feel strongly that this funding should not be removed please consider signing the government e petition that can be found at 

https://submissions.epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/43978