More than 200kg of meat and 400 packs of cigarettes have been seized as part of an inspection of three vans and two trailers on Parr Road in Stanmore.
The illegally imported goods were uncovered on Saturday, February 8, after a joint operation with Harrow Council’s health team and the police. The investigation also found eight litres of illegally imported alcohol, which was surrendered by one driver.
The investigation was sparked by complaints that driveways and pavements were blocked. When these complaints were investigated, it transpired that the vehicles were waiting to unload and pick up goods to be taken abroad.
Councillor 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 will continue to monitor the activity and have warned the people who were involved. The seized goods have now been destroyed.
Harrow Council will continue to work with the police, Food Standard Agency, Trading Standards and Border Controls to identify and prevent illegal imports into the UK.
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