A routine inspection from Barking and Dagenham Council’s Environmental Health Officers has resulted in a local shop being fined over £15,000 and made to close its doors.

Officers visited Abiglobal Foods Wholesale Ltd on 29 June 2023 discovered several, serious food safety breaches including evidence of a significant rodent infestation, with mice droppings found throughout the premises and on food items.

The business, on Unit 5, 75 River Road, Barking, also failed to meet essential pest-proofing requirements, with numerous gaps and cracks identified in external doors, windows, and walls. In addition, the condition of the floor coverings was deemed inadequate, and the wash hand basin was found not to be properly connected to the drainage system.

Due to the severity of the infestation and its potential risk to public health, the premises were closed immediately, and the food business operator voluntarily ceased operations. The premises was permitted to reopen on 7 July 2023, once all necessary remedial actions were taken and the risk to health was removed.

The case was brought before Barkingside Magistrates' Court on Tuesday 8 October 2024, where both the company and its director, Abigail Ronke Thomas, pleaded guilty to four out of five charges. The prosecution agreed to withdraw one of the offences during the hearing.

Earlier this month, on Thursday 7 November, sentencing took place at Romford Magistrates' Court. The court imposed the following penalties:

• Abigail Ronke Thomas (Director):
  • Fine: £400 (reduced for guilty plea)
  • Victim surcharge: £160
  • Full payment due within 28 days
• Abiglobal Foods Wholesale Ltd:
  • Fine: £10,000 (reduced for guilty plea)
  • Victim surcharge: £2,000
  • Costs: £2,869.57
  • Full payment due within 56 days

The total fines and costs amount to £15,429.57.

Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety said: “We take food safety and hygiene standards very seriously, and it is essential that all food businesses adhere to the strict regulations in place to protect public health.

“The serious nature of the violations found at Abiglobal Foods Wholesale Ltd led to immediate action to ensure the premises posed no further risk. The court's decision sends a clear message that such breaches will not be tolerated.”

The business continues to be closely monitored by the council to make sure it is adhering to all regulations.