Ghanaian Jailed in UK for Processing ‘Koobi’ from Residential Flat
Stephen Akuoko sentenced after two-year investigation into illegal fish processing from his Watford flat, highlighting public health risks and food safety breaches
- Watford Borough Council uncovered illegal fish processing in a residential flat
- Akuoko received two consecutive 12-month suspended sentences and a five-year ban from the food industry
- The case underscores the importance of food safety regulations
Watford Borough Council has secured a conviction following a two-year investigation into illegal fish processing in a residential flat in Watford.
Stephen Akuoko, of 21 Lincoln Green Court, Haines Way, Watford, pleaded guilty to two food safety offences at St Albans Magistrates Court on 11 February.
The court heard that Akuoko had been illegally processing fish products, including the popular salted fish ‘koobi,’ from his flat, which is owned by Watford Community Housing (WCH).
He was sentenced at St Albans Crown Court on Thursday, 2 April.
The investigation began after cooked and smoked fish products traced to Akuoko were found being sold in Watford town centre. Despite attempts to conceal his activities, a tip-off from the Fire Service helped authorities identify that the fish was being prepared from his home.
Environmental Health officers served Akuoko with a formal notice to stop production immediately. However, he continued supplying the products for sale and public consumption.
The council decided to prosecute due to the seriousness of the breaches, Akuoko’s lack of cooperation, his disregard for the law, and the potential risk to public health.
The judge handed down two consecutive 12-month custodial sentences, suspended for two years, and imposed a five-year prohibition order banning Akuoko from working in the food industry. He also ordered £2,500 in costs to cover the council’s investigation, rather than a fine. The judge described the evidence as “overwhelming” and praised the persistence of the council’s team.
Fish and seafood production is tightly regulated due to high food safety risks if handled improperly. Poor hygiene or storage can lead to illnesses such as Salmonella, Listeria, or norovirus.
Justine Hoy, Associate Director for Housing and Wellbeing at Watford Borough Council, said:
“Food safety laws exist to protect the public. In this case, there was a clear and sustained failure to comply with legal requirements, despite formal enforcement action being taken. We will not hesitate to take action where businesses or individuals put public health at risk. This successful prosecution demonstrates our commitment to maintaining high food safety standards across Watford.”
The council continues to work proactively with food businesses to ensure compliance with food hygiene regulations and safeguard the health of residents and visitors.
