Ochuko Ojiri, a well-known art dealer who previously featured as an expert on the popular television show Bargain Hunt, is facing charges related to terrorism, as stated by the Metropolitan Police. The 53-year-old from west London is accused of eight counts of “failing to make a disclosure during the course of business within the regulated sector” in connection to an investigation into “terrorist financing.” These alleged offenses are said to have taken place between October 2020 and December 2021, and Mr. Ojiri, also known as Oghenochuko Ojiri, is set to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court later this week.
This case marks the first instance of charges being brought under section 21A of the Terrorism Act of 2000, according to the Metropolitan Police. The investigation was conducted jointly by the force’s specialist arts and antiques unit, the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI), and HMRC. The BBC has refrained from making any comments on the ongoing legal proceedings surrounding Mr. Ojiri’s case.
Although Mr. Ojiri is recognized as one of the experts on Bargain Hunt’s official website, he is not employed by the BBC and works as a freelance presenter. His appearances on shows like Antiques Road Trip and Channel 5’s Storage: Flog the Lot! have contributed to his reputation in the art and antiques industry. Since 2023, he has not been involved in any BBC productions. Additionally, Mr. Ojiri established the Ramp Gallery, now known as the Ojiri Gallery, which is situated in Stoke Newington, north-east London.
In light of the serious charges brought against him, Mr. Ojiri’s future in the art world remains uncertain. The circumstances surrounding the alleged offenses and the impact on his professional reputation will undoubtedly be closely monitored as the legal proceedings progress. The collaboration between law enforcement agencies and regulatory bodies in investigating cases of this nature underscores the importance of vigilance in combating threats related to terrorism financing within various sectors, including the arts and antiques industry
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