Eight photos show the grim scenes inspectors found inside filthy takeaway closed down over rat infestation

Sunderland City Council found evidence Curry Village, in Front Street, Chilton Moor, was infested with rats, leading to its owner Jakaria Ahmed, 49, agreeing to close it while a clear up mission was ordered and specialist pest controllers called in.

The boss, who employed two chefs and a delivery driver, and his wife later told the council it would be dissolving the business for good.

Now South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court has ordered him to pay £2,447 in costs, fines and a victim surcharge, while he has been given a Food Hygiene Prohibition Order, banning him from managing a food business unless he applies to have it lifted following a minimum period of six months.

The Tandoori chef, of James Street in Elswick, Newcastle, admitted six charges of failing to comply with EU provisions on food safety and hygiene relating to the inspections, which took place in May 2019.

He issued an apology to the court as it heard details of what was found during the inspections.

Now the council has shared photos of the evidence uncovered during the visits.

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The council’s Deputy Leader, Councillor Paul Stewart, said: “Food and drinks that are kept or served must be stored safely and be hygienically prepared.

“The vast majority of stores, bars, pubs, restaurants and takeaways in Sunderland do comply with these important regulations.

“However, where they do not there are no excuses for neglecting food hygiene and posing risks to their customers’ health.

“This prosecution and the court’s penalties are a reminder to all food businesses of their responsibilities to residents.

“We, as a council, have no hesitations about prosecuting breaches of food hygiene and safety regulations that put residents at risk.”