Four arrested on suspicion of fraud in counterfeit rice investigation

The Food Standards Agency’s National Food Crime Unit (NFCU) has arrested four people as part of a major food fraud investigation into the distribution and sale of basmati rice in counterfeit packaging.

The first arrest took place on 23 July, when NFCU officers, supported by local authorities and Leicestershire Police, carried out a coordinated operation in Leicester. Officers arrested a 48-year-old man on suspicion of fraud by misrepresentation and conspiracy to defraud. He was later released under investigation.

On 30 July, the investigation expanded to London, with the NFCU, Metropolitan Police, Surrey Police and local authorities raiding multiple premises. Authorities arrested a 56-year-old man, a 51-year-old woman from Croydon, and a 48-year-old man from Epsom on the same suspicions. They were all later released under investigation. A 52-year-old man from London also reportedly attended a voluntary interview.

Officers also seized large quantities of 10kg and 20kg bags of mixed rice in counterfeit premium brand basmati packaging during the operation.

“Sending a clear message”

Neil Castle, Deputy Head of the FSA’s NFCU, said:

The deliberate misrepresentation of legally imported bags of mixed rice as premium basmati products defrauds consumers and creates unfair competition for legitimate businesses. This operation demonstrates the NFCU’s commitment to protecting consumers from food crime and safeguarding our food supply chain.

The arrests send a clear message that we will pursue those who seek to profit from deceiving consumers. Our teams will continue to work with partners to identify, investigate and disrupt these criminal networks, ensuring food is what it says it is.

There is no health risk to the public. However, if you have concerns about a product you have purchased, contact your local Trading Standards.”

Earlier this year, an NFCU investigation resulted in the conviction of four men and a business in Southwark for illegally selling unfit meat. During the investigation, authorities uncovered 1.9 tonnes of animal by-products – meant for disposal or pet food – being processed and sold as food at an illegal meat-cutting plant in London.

If you suspect food fraud, the FSA advises reporting it to Food Crime Confidential at food.gov.uk/report or by phoning 0800 028 1180.