The UK Food Standards Agency’s National Food Crime Unit (FSA’s NFCU) have arrested four people involved in the distribution and sale of rice in counterfeit packaging.

On July 23, 2025, NFCU conducted an operation in Leicester, England, with assistance from local authorities and Leicestershire Police. A 48-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of fraud by misrepresentation and conspiracy to defraud, and released under investigation.

A week later, on July 30, NFCU officers, supported by local authorities, the Metropolitan Police, and Surrey Police, visited multiple premises in London, leading to three arrests. A 56-year-old male and 51-year-old female from Croydon, England, along with a 48-year-old male from Epsom, England, were arrested on suspicion of fraud by misrepresentation and conspiracy to defraud, and later released under investigation.

A 52-year-old male from London also attended a police station for a voluntary interview.

Large quantities of ten kilogram (kg.) and 20 kg. bags of mixed rice in counterfeit premium brand basmati packaging were seized as part of the operation.  

Enquiries are ongoing.