Kebab Shop’s License Under Review Following Incidents Involving Knives and Imitation Firearms

A kebab establishment is facing the potential revocation of its operating license after employees reportedly pursued a customer into the street while armed with knives, and were separately observed with replica guns. North Wales Police has formally requested a review of the license for Efes Kebab House in Colwyn Bay, asserting that its owner failed to comply with conditions, including those aimed at preventing crime and disorder and ensuring public safety. Conwy councillors were informed that in August, staff members, wielding knives, chased a customer who had thrown sauce and a soft drink can at them. Subsequently, in October, law enforcement was summoned after staff were seen with “imitation firearms.” Owner Bilgin Odemis appealed for the business to remain open, offering a “100% guarantee” that such incidents would not recur. The committee heard that the knife incident occurred in the early hours of 17 August. Police stated that following the customer’s pursuit, another staff member then stood outside the shop armed with a knife. A report presented to a licensing sub-committee meeting stated: “The decision to utilise knives, to pursue customers away from the premises in a vehicle and to intimidate customers with knives as a means of resolution is beyond any means which may be considered reasonable.” Aaron Haggas, a police licensing officer, commented that “There could have been serious injury or even death to individuals,” adding that “knife crime cannot and should not be tolerated as part of the licensed economy.” Police were also called to the shop shortly before 04:00 on 10 October when staff members were observed in possession of imitation firearms. “Premises who choose to take the law into their own hands should understand the consequences of their actions,” Mr Haggas said. He further elaborated that while the public “can be challenging,” and steps can be taken to address issues, the actions taken by staff “far exceed what can be considered an appropriate and reasonable course of action.” He characterized the actions as “very much an over-reaction to a very low-level threat,” and stated that the “misuse and tomfoolery involving an imitation firearm is unacceptable.” Mr Odemis, in a statement, declared: “Hand on heart, I’m thinking of the business and family as well.” He continued: “I 100% guarantee I stop any more hurt like this.” He pleaded: “Next time, you can cut off the licence straight away.Please just give us more options and (let me) stay and keep open.” The committee is scheduled to render a decision regarding the license by 24 December.