A city centre store, the International Food Centre on Lincoln Road, Peterborough, was shut down by authorities after a raid uncovered a significant haul of illicit items. During the operation in November, police discovered a cache that included 683,400 cigarettes, 37.45kg of hand-rolling tobacco, 35 cigars, and a substantial sum of cash amounting to £14,886. The inventory also revealed the presence of Viagra tablets along with large amounts of foreign currency.
Following an application to Huntingdon Magistrates’ Court, a closure order was issued for both the shop and the residential flat above on December 31. Cambridgeshire Police sought the closure in response to what they described as “persistent issues” related to the sale of age-restricted and illicit products, as well as non-duty-paid items within the premises. The case is set to be reviewed by Peterborough City Council’s licensing sub-committee on January 24.
A man in his 30s was taken into custody on suspicion of tax evasion and money laundering. He has since been released on bail pending further investigation until February. Subsequently, a man in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply sildenafil. Like his counterpart, he was also released on bail until February.
The shop’s licensing history reveals a series of transfers to different individuals over the years. In April 2022, the current license holder took over both the premises’ license and designated premises supervisor role.
PC James Rice of Cambridgeshire Constabulary highlighted the rationale behind seeking the closure order, citing concerns over the recurring issues at the store involving the sale of restricted and illicit products, as well as non-duty-paid items. He emphasized the potential link between such activities and organized criminal behavior and anti-social conduct, which can have adverse effects on communities. The police official reiterated the commitment to combat organized crime through stringent compliance checks and enforcement measures.
For more updates on developments in Cambridgeshire, you can follow the latest news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X. In related incidents, two individuals have been charged in connection with a cannabis cultivation operation in the town centre. Additionally, authorities seized drugs and weapons during a raid on a convenience store, and illegal cigarettes and tobacco valued at £145,000 were confiscated.
Sources:
– Cambridgeshire Constabulary
– Local Democracy Reporting Service
– Peterborough City Council
