Art fans and TV viewers alike were stunned today as Ochuko Ojiri, a familiar face from shows like Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip, was sentenced to two and a half years in prison.
The popular art dealer admitted to selling nearly £140,000 worth of artwork to a man linked to terrorism, sparking a serious legal case that has sent ripples through the antiques community.
How the Case Unfolded: Connections to a Sanctioned Collector
Ojiri, 53, was found guilty of selling valuable paintings, prints, and sculptures to Nazem Ahmad, a wealthy collector and diamond dealer who is under US sanctions due to his alleged funding of Hezbollah, a designated terrorist group.
Court documents revealed that Ojiri tried to cover up Ahmad’s identity by falsifying invoices and saving his name under an alias on his phone.
Motivation and Method: Greed Meets Reputation Building
Prosecutors argued that Ojiri was driven by greed and the desire to raise his gallery’s profile, the Shoreditch-based Ojiri Gallery, by associating with such a well-known collector.
The invoices presented as evidence included art pieces valued between £2,250 and £20,000.
Arrest and Investigation Details: From TV to Courtroom
Ojiri was arrested in Wrexham in April 2023 while filming for the BBC.
Coincidentally, on the same day, the UK government announced sanctions against Ahmad, leading police to raid warehouses and seize £1 million worth of art, including works by Picasso and Andy Warhol.
These seized pieces will now be sold, with proceeds going back into law enforcement efforts.
Legal Significance: A First in Terrorism Act Prosecutions for Art Dealers
The Crown Prosecution Service highlighted that this prosecution under the Terrorism Act is believed to be the first of its kind targeting an art dealer.
Ojiri pleaded guilty to eight counts of failing to disclose information about transactions in the regulated art market, crimes spanning from October 2020 to December 2021.
The Human Side: Ojiri’s Regrets and Personal Struggles
Ojiri’s defense lawyer shared that Ojiri deeply regrets his actions.
The dealer has lost his reputation, his business, and the career he loved — including his TV appearances.
He is now battling depression and severe anxiety and fears the impact this will have on his family life, particularly raising his young daughter.
Court’s Verdict: Judge Condemns Ojiri’s Actions
Sentencing was delivered by Mrs Justice Cheema-Grubb, who pointed out that Ojiri knowingly dealt with Ahmad despite his links to terrorism, prioritizing profit and prestige over legal compliance.
The judge’s remarks were broadcast live, underscoring the seriousness of the offence.
Expert Voices: Police and Prosecutors Highlight Importance of the Case
Commander Dominic Murphy from the Metropolitan Police praised the case as an example of cutting-edge counter-terrorism work, warning the art world that those dealing with sanctioned individuals will face prosecution.
Bethan David from the CPS emphasized the importance of adhering to money laundering regulations in the art market and vowed to continue pursuing offenders.
Ojiri’s Past and Passion for Art: A Career Cut Short
Before his downfall, Ojiri was known for his passion for antiques and vintage items, running a trendy London shop and regularly appearing on popular BBC shows.
His enthusiasm for collecting contemporary art, paintings, prints, and sculptures was well-known among fans.
The Bigger Picture: Tackling Terror Financing Through Art and Antiques
Authorities believe that high-value art and diamonds are used by individuals like Ahmad to launder money and finance terrorist activities.
This case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in regulating the art market and stopping funds from reaching dangerous groups.