Kebab house closed after cockroach infestation

Environmental health inspectors have closed down a hot food takeaway after finding the premises infested with cockroaches.

An officer visited Bury Kebab House in Market Street, Bury on receiving a complaint from a customer who found a cockroach in their chips.

The inspector discovered live and dead cockroaches on the kitchen floor, and ordered business owner Zafar Iqbal to close immediately pending further investigations. The officer then found an extensive German cockroach infestation, from nymphs to full sized adults, and a huge amount of cockroach droppings throughout food preparation areas.

Bury Magistrates Court today (Tuesday 20 Dec) issued a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Order which prevents the business from re-opening until the health risks are removed.The court also awarded the council costs of £800.

Councillor Sandra Walmsley, cabinet member for strategic housing and support services, said: “It is appalling that a takeaway has been infested like this, putting public safety at risk. Bury Council and the public expect all outlets in the borough to adhere to the highest standards of hygiene in preparing food. The importance of health and safety cannot be underestimated in food preparation areas and we will take swift action against those who do not maintain these standards.”

ENDS

Press release issued: 20 December 2016.

Picture: The bag of chips bought by a customer at Bury Kebab House which contained a cockroach.