Authorities order all Ajman restaurants to install CCTV

The move comes after a bakery employee was filmed spitting into bread dough by a customer

A bakery worker in Ajman was arrested after spitting into bread dough. Jeffrey E Biteng / The National

Restaurants in Ajman have been ordered to fit CCTV cameras in kitchens after a baker was caught spitting into bread dough.

The employee was detained on Sunday when officials received a video of the incident from a disgruntled customer.

The worker was taken to Al Jarf Police Station and tested for coronavirus as a precautionary measure, according to the authorities.

On Monday, despite the results coming back negative, officials took the decision to order all restaurants and bakeries in the emirate to install CCTV in food preparation areas.

The decision was issued following an incident in which a bakery worker was arrested after spitting in bread dough

“To preserve the health and safety of consumers, the local crisis and disaster management team has issued a decision requiring owners of all restaurants and bakeries in Ajman to install permanent surveillance cameras,” said Maj Gen Sheikh Al Nuaimi, of Ajman Police.

“The decision was issued following an incident in which a bakery worker was arrested after spitting in bread dough while preparing it.”

On Monday, restaurant owners in Ajman welcomed the move, highlighting the importance of good hygiene especially given the current coronavirus pandemic.

“Restaurants should install cameras in their kitchens to spot any violations,” said Ahmed Al Khateeb, 50, owner of an Emirati restaurant called Sikeek.

“I’ve installed cameras in the dining area, near the cash register and the kitchen, along with existing cameras at the entrance of the restaurant.

“It’s a wise decision and it will ensure the health and safety of our customers."

Mohammed Mokhtar, manager of Lebanon’s Spring Bakery in the emirate, said he had 32 cameras installed.

“Cameras are very important. Any [food] violations will be immediately detected and solved," he said.

“It will also make customers feel safe and aware that their food is prepared in a clean, safe and monitored environment.”