A parcel containing 2.5kg of cannabis destined for a County Durham cafe was intercepted by Border Force officials before it could be delivered, a licensing hearing heard.
Officers seized the shipment, valued at around £50,000, from Toronto, Canada, while it was in transit to The Beveridge Way Bistro in Newton Aycliffe, formerly known as Cafe HQ.
The shock discovery prompted Durham Constabulary to seek the immediate suspension of the venue’s alcohol licence, arguing the premises had become associated with serious crime.
But Huey Watson, the cafe’s licence holder and supervisor, said he was “absolutely bamboozled” by the incident and denied any responsibility.
Police told a Durham County Council licensing committee they had been unable to trace the person named on the parcel, who is not on the electoral register, and believe it may have been intended for someone else or a different address.
Yet, officers said the fact such a large quantity of drugs was destined for the premises was a matter of “serious concern”.
In a statement read to the hearing, the force said: “The premises are associated with serious crime, which raises the question: should the person responsible continue to hold a premises licence?
“Had it not been intercepted by Border Force, it would have made its way to the premises. There are serious concerns with the management, oversight and control of the premises.”
The investigation, involving Durham Constabulary and Border Force, is ongoing.
Mr Watson said he had no knowledge of the drugs and had recently worked with others to help progress the business before taking time away because of personal circumstances.
He told police during the council hearing: “I totally understand why you have taken the action you have. I have never had anything to do with this in the past. It has obviously got into a mess and out of control.
“I am absolutely bamboozled by all this. I’ve worked hard and always kept myself clean. I agree with what you are doing and hope it all ends. It’s horrible.”
The council’s licensing committee agreed to suspend the premises’ alcohol licence and remove Mr Watson as the cafe’s supervisor pending a full review.
Councillor Tim Robson, licensing committee chairman, said: “We agree that this premises should have its licence suspended and the supervisor removed. You will still be able to operate your business but when this amount of drugs is delivered, it raises eyebrows and suspicions.”
Mr Watson reassured customers that the cafe will continue to trade as normal despite the alcohol licence suspension.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
