Bargain Hunt Star Ochuko Ojiri Faces Terror Charge
Ochuko Ojiri, 53, known for his appearances on the BBCS “Bargain Hunt” and other antiques programs, has been charged with a terror offense following a police investigation. The art dealer, whose full name is Oghenochuko Ojiri, was taken into custody as part of a probe into terrorist financing.
Details of the Charges
Mr. Ojiri is the first individual to be charged with a specific offence under section 21A of the Terrorism Act 2000. He faces eight counts of failing to make a disclosure during the course of business within the regulated sector. These alleged offences occurred between October 2020 and December 2021.
Investigation and Court Appearance
Mr. Ojiri is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on May 9. The charges stem from an investigation into terrorist financing conducted by officers from the national Terrorist Financial Investigation unit (NTFIU), which is part of the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism command. The Treasury, HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs), and the Met’s Arts & Antiques Unit were also involved in the investigation.
Ojiri’s Background in the Art World
Before his television career,Mr. Ojiri owned an art gallery called Pelicans and parrots,once described as the coolest place in London.
The gallery, which closed in 2021, offered a curated selection of contemporary furniture, houseware, and gifts.
Television Career
Mr. Ojiri’s television career began with an appearance on the BBC show “Put Your Money Where your mouth Is.” He later became a regular on “Bargain Hunt,” where he provides expert advice to aspiring antique buyers. He has also appeared on “Antiques Road Trip,” traveling across the country to find profitable forgotten items.
Contemporary art, paintings, prints, sculpture and drawings. I’m absolutely obsessed, in love and infatuated.
Ochuko Ojiri, BBC
Art Collector and Gallery Launch
Outside of his television work, Mr. Ojiri is an avid collector of contemporary art and helped launch the London-based Ramp Gallery, which supports emerging artists.He previously expressed his passion for contemporary art, stating, Contemporary art, paintings, prints, sculpture and drawings. I’m absolutely obsessed, in love and infatuated.
