In a joint operation on Wednesday, June 10, West Midlands Police and Immigration Enforcement raided New Tasty Restaurant, located on Station Street near Birmingham New Street Station and Grand Central. The investigation revealed that three individuals working at the restaurant had no legal right to work in the UK and were subsequently arrested.
During the search, officers uncovered that the floor beneath the restaurant, previously a snooker hall and later a brothel, had been converted into living quarters. The three illegal workers confirmed they were residing in these makeshift bedrooms.
Additionally, several realistic-looking air weapons were found on the premises, were made safe, and seized by police.
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Due to safety concerns about the condition of the property, West Midlands Fire Service was called to the scene, resulting in a prohibition order being placed on the entire premises, including the restaurant and the floors below.
Superintendent Karl Thomas expressed serious concerns about the premises' management, highlighting issues relating to crime prevention and public safety. The police have requested that Birmingham City Council review the premises licence held by Morris James Larman.
This operation was part of a series of raids across Birmingham city centre on the same day, including one at Vietnam City Restaurant in Chinatown, where two illegal workers were also found.
Members of the public can submit comments on the licensing application until Wednesday, August 5, via email at [email protected].