01/10/2009 - Bogus inspectors 'fine' restaurants
Several cafes in east London have paid "fines" to fraudsters claiming to be from the Food Standards Agency (FSA).
Hackney Council said the bogus inspectors, who carried fake identities, had visited a number of businesses in the area, issuing £500 on-the-spot punishments for "unhygienic" conditions.
Councillor Alan Laing warned businesses that genuine FSA officials did not carry out such inspections, nor did they issue punishments for breaches of health guidelines.
"We are trying to catch those responsible for ripping off restaurants and cafes in Hackney, but in the meantime we are asking all Hackney's food shops, restaurants and cafes to be on the alert for food fraudsters," he said.
"If your food business is visited by anyone claiming to be from the Food Standards Agency, it's important to remember not to part with any money. The first thing to do is contact the police and then to advise Environmental Health at Hackney Council."
Copyright © Press Association 2009
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