Rotherham shop owner fined over rat infestation

An immediate closure notice was served on Alan Jamal Abdullah after the pest problem was uncovered at Millmoor Mini Market.

Rotherham Council’s environmental health department was granted an emergency order to close the Masbrough shop in October 2021.

Alan Jamal Abdullah, who owned the business at the time, has now been ordered to pay £600 by magistrates in Sheffield.

The 29-year-old appeared in court on September 8 and was found guilty of three food hygiene offences.

Abdullah, of Scovell Avenue in Rawmarsh, was fined £266 and ordered to pay £300 costs and a victim surcharge of £34.

Cllr Dominic Beck, RMBC cabinet member for the environment, said: “Food business operators have a legal duty to keep their premises hygienic and any failure to do so will not be tolerated.

“My colleagues work tirelessly to ensure our shops and business are safe.

“I’m sure the public will be reassured to see council officers protecting the public and taking offenders to court.

“Anyone with concerns about hygiene standards at a food business should report them to the council and we will take action.”

New owners took over Millmoor Mini Market in November 2021.