A SNAKE which police believe may have a deadly bite is sill on the loose in Ilford this afternoon – but no one has told the shopkeepers working a stone’s throw away from where the slithery creature escaped, it is being claimed.
Police are warning members of the public to be on the lookout after the snake escaped from a house in Belgrave Road, Ilford.
The creature, believed to be a venomous coral snake which has a fatal bite, was reported missing on Wednesday after being let out of its tank and into the back garden of the house where it is kept as a pet.
But despite safer neighbourhood teams patrolling the surrounding streets, speaking with residents and handing out leaflets, businesses owners in Belgrave Road say they had “no idea” a snake was on the loose.
Amer Ayub, who owns coffee bar Moroccan Garden, said: “I’ve got a big phobia of snakes. The last thing I want is one in here.
“I haven’t been told about it at all – it’s a bit scary.
“I wouldn’t know what to do if I saw one.”
The 38-year-old added: “I’ve got to start looking more closely in case it’s near here.”
Naresh Dohal, owner of off-licence Wine Master, said: “I saw officers walking past here yesterday but no one has said anything to us.
“We have our back door open so I would have hoped they’d tell us.”
Officers are carrying out searches of the wider area and have been liaising with the RSPCA and experts from London Zoo to learn more about the species and work out where it is likely to seek refuge.
A police spokesman said: “As a matter of caution, members of the public are advised not to approach or attempt to touch the snake if spotted but to call 999 immediately, seeking the assistance of police.