The significance of strict adherence to licensing and regulatory standards has come to the forefront following a raid on the Shanghaiye 'Pad Thai' karaoke bar and restaurant in Birmingham.  

Among the discoveries was a ‘large quantity of poker cards and poker chips. The Birmingham City Council is conducting a review of the licence.  

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Shut Down In 2023 When Mouse Droppings Found  

In February 2023 the restaurant was shut down when mouse droppings were found on packages of noodles. At the time, a court said the restaurant posed "an imminent risk of injury to health because there is rodent activity, ineffective cleaning, inadequate pest proofing, and food and packaging exposed to a risk of contamination."  

The Shanghaiye Pad Thai has some glowing reviews on its website but does not feature on a number of sites, which list the best restaurants in Birmingham. 

Joint Operation Found Drugs and Gambling Equipment 

A joint operation by licensing enforcement, police, and immigration officials uncovered serious violations, including the presence of suspected illegal workers, drugs, and unlicensed gambling activities.  

This coordinated inspection, conducted on June 21, revealed alarming discrepancies between the bar's actual layout and the plans submitted to the council. Critical licensing documents, including the premises license itself, were missing, and the designated premises supervisor listed was incorrect. 

The failure to follow licensing regulations is not just a legal matter; it directly impacts public safety and community well-being. 

Licensing enforcement officer Christina McCullough emphasized the necessity of thorough training for all staff on licensing objectives, which encompass preventing underage drinking, curtailing drug use, and safeguarding vulnerable individuals. The absence of trained personnel in areas like first aid demonstrates a neglect of responsibilities that could have dire consequences for patrons.  

Lack of Accountability From Management 

Among the most concerning findings during the raid was a significant quantity of suspected cannabis discovered in a storage area, accompanied by unlicensed gambling materials. Immigration officers also detained three individuals lacking valid visas, highlighting a critical oversight in the establishment's hiring practices. Companies House records show the restaurant has changed names and directors on numerous occasions.  

McCullough pointed out a troubling lack of accountability from the management during the inspection, as no one was willing to assume responsibility for the business. 

She stressed that proper management oversight is essential for any licensed establishment and that businesses must operate transparently and responsibly. 

In response to the discovery of illegal drugs, the bar's management claimed it was an isolated incident, but McCullough stressed the importance of compliance with legal protocols in handling such situations. Failure to address these issues raises serious concerns about the establishment's commitment to the licensing objectives that protect the community. 

Revocation of Licence Recommended by Council 

Given the severity of the violations, McCullough recommended the revocation of the premises license and the removal of the designated premises supervisor, asserting that without effective management, no amount of regulatory conditions would rectify the situation.