**BBC Antiques Personality Faces Accusations Under Terrorism Law**
The BBC has become embroiled in a major controversy after one of its familiar faces, art expert Ochuko Ojiri, was formally charged with serious terrorism-related offences. Best known for his appearances on popular television programmes such as *Bargain Hunt* and *Antiques Road Trip*, Ojiri, aged 53, is accused of failing to disclose information linked to terrorist financing during his professional activities.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that Ojiri now faces eight separate charges under the Terrorism Act 2000. Specifically, the accusations pertain to failures to make necessary disclosures while operating in the regulated sector — an obligation critical in preventing financial crimes, particularly those connected to terrorism. This case marks a landmark, as Ojiri is understood to be the first individual to be prosecuted for this specific offence under section 21A of the act.
A highly regarded dealer in contemporary art, Ojiri has built a reputation in both the television and art worlds. On the BBC’s official platforms, he is lauded as a dedicated expert with a keen passion for collecting art in all its forms — from modern paintings and sculptures to vintage design pieces. For several years, Ojiri was a regular contributor to Bargain Hunt, offering his insights and valuations, as well as taking to the road on *Antiques Road Trip* since 2021 to help unearth hidden treasures for audiences at home.
Beyond the television screen, Ojiri has contributed to London’s vibrant art and retail scene. Alongside business partner Juliet Da Silva, he founded the vintage shop Pelicans and Parrots in Dalston, east London. The store quickly developed a cult following for its curated selection of modern furniture, housewares, and quirky gifts, at one point even earning the distinction of being “the coolest place in London”. However, after a successful run, the business closed its doors in October 2021.
The allegations against Ojiri refer to activities that allegedly took place between October 2020 and December 2021. The Met’s National Terrorist Financial Investigation Unit led the inquiry, which drew on the expertise and resources of the Treasury, HM Revenue & Customs, and the police’s specialist Arts & Antiques Unit. Officers conducted an in-depth investigation before the Crown Prosecution Service granted permission to bring charges.
Ojiri, who lives in west London, is due to make his first appearance at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Friday. The development has left the arts community and television fans reeling, with many seeking answers and clarification about the details and context of the charges. Journalists attempted to contact the now-closed Ojiri Gallery for comment, but were met with a refusal to respond.
The BBC has not yet issued an official statement on the situation. The corporation has, in the past, stressed its commitment to the highest standards among on-air talent and said it takes all allegations involving legal or ethical breaches with the utmost seriousness.
This high-profile case highlights the increasing overlap between the cultural sector and regulatory demands in the financial realm, particularly given the global emphasis on countering terrorism financing. It also underlines the legal obligations placed upon those in the art and antiques trade, an industry sometimes seen as vulnerable to misuse due to the scale and discretion of its transactions.
As legal proceedings get underway later this week, much remains unclear about the nature and evidence surrounding the allegations. The outcome may have far-reaching ramifications for both the art world and the broader cultural community, while inviting new scrutiny of the processes and safeguards in place across the creative industries.
Further updates on the case will be closely followed in both legal and artistic circles, where observers await developments with a mix of concern and curiosity, given the gravity of the charges and the profile of the accused.