BBC UK Editor Ed Thomas has revealed the threats and violence he and his team faced while investigating criminal gangs operating on British high streets. Appearing on BBC Breakfast on Thursday, Thomas described being chased, shoved, and threatened during a year-long probe into illegal activity in mini-marts and vape shops.
During the segment, a Trading Standards officer named Mandy recounted death threats from a Kurdish crime gang involved in selling illegal cigarettes. She said she was told: 'If you don't, we're going to kill your husband, we're going to kill you, and we will burn down your house.' Mandy was also followed home and had her car rammed, causing thousands of pounds in damage.
Thomas stated that 24 Trading Standards officers spoke to BBC News about daily intimidation and violence. He noted that bats, axes, knives, and even a gun were found in shops linked to organised crime. 'We've been chased off high streets, we've been cajoled, we've been shoved, we've been threatened,' he said, adding that a team member was assaulted and child exploitation and open drug dealing were observed.
The Government has pledged to work with Trading Standards, police, and the National Crime Agency to tackle the issue, saying it will not tolerate abuse against public officials.
