Shock as six Edinburgh restaurant workers left without job or pay on Christmas Eve
At 2.30pm yesterday the owner of Cross Kitchen takeaway arrived at his takeaway shop to find the doors locked and bolted.
An eviction notice from Mackay Sinclair Solicitors was sellotaped to the front door stating that any person entering the building will be prosecuted.
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Hide AdShocked and confused, owner Abmg Mostofa was informed that the building insurance had not been paid meaning he was unable to trade from the commercial premises.
Mr Mostofa insisted he “could not understand” why this had happened as he was unaware that it was his responsibility to pay the insurance premiums.
He said: “If this has to be paid okay but I have received no communication about paying this. I cannot understand how it is legal to lock me out of my shop with no notice.”
Mr Mostofa phoned the solicitors involved to find out how to gain access to the building and was informed that the offices were shut until January 5.
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Hide AdThe 45-year-old called his landlord and explained that he needed to enter the building to collect cash to pay his employees their monthly wages.
He said: “The money is in the shop so I cannot pay my staff until I get into the building.
“I phoned the landlord to explain but he would not listen, he said I had to contact the solicitor but they are not open.”
“I have had to tell my six employees that they will not be paid on time. It is very upsetting for myself and my two drivers and four kitchen workers. We have all lost everything.”
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Hide AdMr Mostofa said his business was already struggling due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and as he is now unable to make money over the festive period his shop will have to close.
He added: “I have not been able to sleep since yesterday afternoon I have so much anxiety about this. I do not think we will be able to stay open”
The landlord said he is now working with Mr Mostofa to organise access to the building.
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