A joint operation led to the seizure of a significant amount of illegally imported goods in Stanmore on Saturday morning (8 February).
Officers from Harrow Council’s environmental health team and police inspected three vans and two trailers on Parr Road following complaints about driveways and pavements being blocked. The vehicles were waiting to unload and pick up goods to be taken abroad.
During the inspection, 200kg of illegally imported meat was seized, along with 400 packs of cigarettes. One driver surrendered 8 litres of alcohol.
Cllr Pritesh Patel, Cabinet Member for Cleaner Streets and Public Protection, said: “We’re continuing to crackdown on illegal imports that put public health at risk and make it unfair on businesses operating legally. I’d like to thank officers and our partners for the work carried out in this operation.
“It’s the job of our officers to ensure public safety and that food operators and traders are complying with the law. We will continue to work with our partners to keep Harrow safe and take the necessary actions on such activities.”
Officers have issued warnings and will continue to monitor this activity. The seized goods have been destroyed.
The council will continue working with the police, Food Standards Agency, Trading Standards, and Border Controls to prevent illegal imports from entering the UK food chain.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
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