Wavertree Shop Loses Licence After Nitrous Oxide and Fake Doll Seizure

On 24 June 2026 police and trading standards officers conducted a coordinated raid on a retail outlet in Wavertree, Liverpool. The operation uncovered a large cache of illegal items, including fifty nitrous oxide canisters and a stock of counterfeit lab ubu dolls, as well as a concealed baton resembling a police‑style weapon.

Investigators found the nitrous oxide containers stored in a box at the back of the shop, separated into individual snap bags ready for sale. The gas, commonly known as laughing gas, is a colourless substance used medically as a painkiller but classified as a Class C drug in 2023. Possession or sale for recreational use is now a criminal offence, and the officers’ discovery highlighted serious health‑and‑safety concerns for the community.

Citizens and local officials expressed alarm at the potential risks. The council’s licensing and gambling committee chair, Christine Banks, described the situation as “appalling” and warned that the uncontrolled sale of nitrous oxide could have caused a catastrophic fire or explosion. She explained that the premises licence would be withdrawn to protect public safety and to send a clear message that illegal drug distribution will not be tolerated.

The shop owner, Zahid Iqbal, denied knowledge of the contraband, claiming that his brother, who managed the premises, was unaware of the illegal nature of the products. Despite these denials, the licensing authority noted a pattern of failure to maintain control, leading to the revocation of the licence. The enforcement action underscores the vital role of local government and trading standards in safeguarding communities from harmful substances.

In addition to the gas canisters, officers seized a collection of fake lab ubu dolls that were broken into pieces, indicating they were not intended for children’s play. The counterfeit items represent a breach of consumer protection laws and further demonstrate the shop’s disregard for legal and ethical standards.

Police officer PC Nicola Ireland and trading‑standards officer Claire Jones emphasized the ongoing investigation, stating that the evidence points to a deliberate operation to profit from dangerous and fraudulent goods. The incident mirrors similar enforcement actions elsewhere in the United Kingdom, where authorities have acted decisively to close venues implicated in drug‑related activities.

Overall, the raid serves as a reminder that vigilant regulation and community‑focused policing are essential to prevent the distribution of hazardous substances and protect public health. The removal of the premises licence reflects a commitment to uphold safety standards and enforce the law fairly.

Residents can remain confident that local agencies are actively monitoring and intervening when illegal activities threaten their well‑being, reinforcing a safer environment for all.