LONDON: The United Kingdom customs department seized £900,000 during raids at a shop and house of a Pakistani-born affluent business tycoon.
The investigators were astounded when they discovered bundles of cash stuffed in bags as they rounded up grocer Mohammed Ameen Mirza.
Around £400,000 in cash was found at his residence whereas £500,000 was stashed in one of his stores.
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The cash was seized after the Customs and Police Scotland started a probe into an alleged tax evasion case of £4 million.
“Officers couldn’t believe the amount of cash they found. There seemed to be notes stuffed in any container available. Money was found in plastic carrier bags and paper bags,” a source privy to the investigation said. “Cash was also discovered all over the house. The biggest surprise came when the shop safe was opened and £500,000 was found. It wasn’t expected. The investigation could take months.”
Ameen Mirza, 50, is considered to be an influential business tycoon in the Asian community settled in the United Kingdom.
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Last year, a photo of Mirza with ex-prime minister Gordon Brown and former Punjab governor Mohammad Sarwar surfaced after he organised a charity event in Glasgow.
Mirza has now been charged with fraudulently evading the VAT and failing to declare his earnings. He was released as further inquiries ensued.
“This is a complicated investigation focusing on more than one individual, including others in the retail industry. It’ll take a while before things become clearer,” the source added.
Mirza is listed as a director of Companies House of Ahy Property Limited.
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