Cocaine and cannabis sold in High Street mini-marts – BBC undercover filming

Business owners on Dudley High Street are reporting a climate of fear and intimidation, citing a rise in violent crime and illegal trade that threatens their livelihoods.

Marius Boros, a Romanian national who has operated a grocery shop on Dudley High Street for 13 years, says customers are afraid to visit due to frequent fights involving knives and guns.

Boros claims his business is being destroyed by mini-marts selling illegal, cut-price goods and drugs. He stated that he has invested everything he had into the business and is now close to losing it all.

Targeted Intimidation on Dudley High Street

Diane Shawe, owner of a local hair salon, reports that her shop windows have been smashed four times during the middle of the night. CCTV footage captured men in hoodies throwing bricks at the windows shortly after the glass had been replaced.

Shawe believes local criminals are attempting to force her out of the premises to make it too expensive for her to remain. Her clientele includes individuals with cancer and alopecia.

Following one of the attacks, two men called the salon to intimidate Shawe, stating they wanted the premises to set up a barber shop. One individual specifically asked if she was now ready to sell.