An Indian takeaway in Birmingham has been forced to close after environmental health officers discovered severe cockroach and rodent infestations on the premises. Hajee Desi Khana, located at 592 Coventry Road in Small Heath, was found to have evidence of rats, mice, and cockroaches in multiple areas of the kitchen and storage spaces.
Complaint Leads to Inspection
The action was taken following a complaint from a member of the public on April 30 regarding the presence of cockroaches at the eatery. Officers from Birmingham City Council's environmental health team conducted an immediate inspection and uncovered widespread pest activity.
Evidence of Infestation
Environmental health officer Thomas Smith detailed the findings during a court hearing. Rat droppings were discovered in the kitchen, under a fridge, in the storage area, and smeared on drains. Mice droppings were also found behind a drinks fridge. Additionally, 'gnawed material' believed to be caused by rodents was present.
Cockroaches were seen throughout the takeaway, including one crawling up a wall during the inspection and near containers of flour. Several egg shells, each capable of carrying 20 to 30 baby cockroaches, were also found. A leaking hot water pipe was noted as providing an ideal breeding environment for cockroaches.
Court Order Granted
The council applied for a hygiene emergency prohibition order, citing an 'imminent risk of injury to health' due to pest activity, lack of effective cleaning, and food exposed to contamination. Birmingham Magistrates Court granted the order on May 7, following an emergency prohibition notice served during the inspection.
The order will remain in effect until all issues are rectified and the council is satisfied that there is no longer a risk to public health. Mr Smith confirmed that the owner has been contacted and is currently undertaking remedial works, with no plans to reopen until the problems are resolved.
