A POLICE officer paid pet shops across Bromley a surprise visit as part of a global crackdown on the illegal trade of reptiles and amphibians.

PC John Blackman, Bromley police's wildlife crime officer, dropped in at stores from the beginning of September to the end of last month as part of international police force Interpol’s Operation Ramp.

He found all pet shops selling reptiles and amphibians were trading legally, but says he will continue to monitor stores in the borough.

He said: "This isn’t a one-off strike but an ongoing operation that will continue to target illegal animal sellers.”

Anyone with information about wildlife crime in Bromley should call PC Blackman on 0208 284 8857 or email john.blackman@met.police.uk