Restaurants targeted for spot checks on conditions

Operation Cleansweep acts after fears of overcrowding

Officials swooped on premises across Ashford to inspect kitchens and homes following fears of overcrowding.

Operation Cleansweep was launched by Ashford Borough Council’s community safety officers along with Home Office immigration officers, police, fire brigade and environmental health teams.

Immigration enforcement teams visited The Little Raj and Paper Duck World Buffet in North Street, the Aji Japanese restaurant and Super Pizza in New Rents, and the Indian Diner in the Lower High Street.

Photographer Andy Clark snapped the town centre visits last week, which were prompted by reports of overcrowded living conditions in the town centre.

A Home Office spokesman said no action from the immigration enforcement teams followed the visits.

A council spokesman said owners had fully cooperated, allowing them to offer advice to improve their living conditions and safety.

Council community safety manager James Hann said the primary objective was to provide safety information for residents.

He said: “Through liaising closely with partner organisa- tions, we can work together to address those matters which concern our residents, and tackle them head on for the benefit of the whole community.”

Police were also in the town centre for an unrelated matter.

They arrested a 30-year-old man on suspicion of theft on April 23, when it is believed he stole from Xpress Games in Chapel Mews behind the former Merchant Chandler store.

Police spokesman Jon Green confirmed the man was being held in custody after he was arrested during a visit to Betfred in Bank Street.

Picture: Andy Clark Immigration officers joined other officials in Operation Cleansweep around Ashford businesses