A Swindon kebab shop has been ordered to remain closed after a deeply troubling rat infestation was discovered by environmental health officers.
Shinwari Kebab, situated at 52 Manchester Road, found itself at the centre of a serious food hygiene case when officers from Swindon Borough Council responded to a public complaint earlier this month. Upon entering the premises, officers were immediately confronted by unmistakable signs of rodent activity.
Inspectors described an overpowering stench of rodent urine, droppings scattered across food preparation areas, and evidence of gnawing throughout the shop. Containers of spices were found with rat stains on the lids, and chewed bags of flour lay amongst piles of droppings on shelving units. Holes in the walls, doors, and floors allowed easy access for rodents, while makeshift attempts to block entry points with expanding foam had failed as the rodents simply chewed through the barriers.
Appearing before District Judge Kirsty Allman at Swindon Magistrates Court on 19th June, the owner of the business, Izoitullah Nazari, heard how cleaning standards had deteriorated badly. Officers reported a worrying build-up of grime, rodent smears, and general filth, with no proper cleaning chemicals on site. Food utensils, chopping boards, and crockery were left exposed in contaminated areas, putting public health at serious risk.
Handwashing and basic personal hygiene observed by inspectors fell far below acceptable standards. The court was also told that, despite clear evidence of infestation, the business had initially denied the existence of any rodent problem.
Given the gravity of the findings, District Judge Allman imposed a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Order, preventing the shop from reopening until environmental health officers are satisfied that all risks to public health have been eliminated. The council was also awarded £2,000 in costs.
Councillor Jim Grant, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Joint Working and Communities, spoke candidly about the case: “The conditions found in this kebab shop were appalling. The photographs clearly show rats were running wild, despite the owners’ initial denial.
This is a stark reminder to all food businesses of their legal responsibilities. I am grateful to the member of the public who alerted us, enabling swift action to protect customers.”
He added that while such extreme cases are rare, professional pest control should always be sought at the earliest sign of an issue.
“The vast majority of Swindon’s food businesses take hygiene seriously and work hard to maintain high standards. Sadly, it only takes a few to damage public confidence.”
Shinwari Kebab will remain shut until further notice, pending a thorough reinspection by council officers once the owner believes the problem has been fully resolved.
Anyone wishing to check the hygiene ratings of Swindon food businesses can do so via the Food Standards Agency website.
