A LARGE shipment of endangered bat-eating fish has been seized by police in Barkingside.

The raid happened after a fish dealer was fingered for the suspected illegal trading of live animals.

Officers from Redbridge Police swooped on his home on Monday, October 29, to discover tanks full of Arowana fish from the Far East worth an estimated £24,000 on the black market.

Eleven of the fish, which were placed on the World Conservation Union's endangered species list in 2006 and have been known to change hands for as much £250,000, were discovered in the raid.

The South East Asian fish, which police officers believe were flown over from Singapore, are highly sought after by some fish collectors and can live for up to 20 years if they are cared for properly in captivity.

Andy Fisher, head of the Met's Wildlife Crime Unit, said: "Today's seizure is part of Operation Charm and highlights that the trade in endangered species happens here in London and is international in its nature.

"The recovery of live animals is extremely rare, but the law applies in the same way to endangered species in any form.

"While dealers are at the forefront of ensuring that the trade in these types of animals does not take place, a great responsibly also rests with the public. It is also illegal to buy as well as sell an endangered species.

The fish can come in a variety of colours from green to gold to red and are also known as Dragon Fish.

They can jump 6ft out of the water while chasing their prey which can include creatures as large as birds and bats.

International trade involving these long-lived creatures has been restricted for over 30 years and specimens can only be legally brought and sold by registered breeders.

Mr Fisher said: "The public needs to be aware of all types of endangered species and report any information on illegal trade to the police."

A man has been bailed to a date in the new year.