Raided club loses licence
A CLUB in Fitzrovia had its licence revoked last week following the arrest of its manager in November over allegations of prostitution, drug-dealing and violence.
The Capricorn Club had its licence taken away by licensing chiefs at the Town Hall after the police called for a council review, and this followed a raid on the Goodge Street bar in November that saw seven people arrested.
Three men were charged with controlling a brothel and possession of drugs with intent to supply, while 18 women working at the club were interviewed and offered support services. The manager was also charged with money-laundering and possession of an offensive weapon.
Anyone looking to reopen the Capricorn – a basement private members’ bar that allowed non-members in for a fee – would now have to reapply for a licence.
Councillor Chris Knight, Camden’s environment chief, said: “When the council has information from the police that serious crime or disorder may be taking place at a premises we are able to take swift action.
“This closure shows that we take evidence of any such activity very seriously, and will not hesitate to revoke a premises licence if necessary.”
CHARLOTTE CHAMBERS