Enforcement officers from Barking and Dagenham Council have been out in force shutting down a number of businesses operating illegally in the borough despite government guidance asking them to close during the coronavirus lockdown.
During a planned operation, enforcement officers identified and shut down nine businesses operating when they should have been temporarily closed down.
The businesses ranged from vape shops, beauty suppliers and hand car washes to scrap metal yards.
Regulations give local authorities wide ranging powers to close premises by any means necessary, which are unlawfully open, including prohibition notices, fixed penalty fines, revocation of licences and prosecution.
Councillor Margaret Mullane, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety said: “We will not stand for businesses operating in these difficult and trying times despite being told repeatedly that they must shut down.
“This is a major health risk to our whole community, and we must not allow businesses acting irresponsibly to help spread the virus and putting lives at risk. Our officers have all the powers needed to prosecute and if necessary, we will close them down.
“Once again, I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone that is complying with the guidance and directives from government and if you’re a local business or self-employed, make sure you head to the government website to find out what support is available to you.”
If you see a business operating, that you believe should be shut for trading, report them to covidabuse@lbbd.gov.uk or