Tower Hamlets landlords Aminur Rahman and Sofina Begum have faced prosecution after it was uncovered that their two-bedroom rental flat housed 23 occupants. This severe overcrowding led to a substantial fine of over £90,000.

The duo was found in violation of multiple regulations, including non-compliance with licensing conditions, failure to conduct mandatory inspections, and the absence of a valid gas safety certificate. They also failed to provide the necessary documentation requested by the council.

During a court hearing, it was disclosed by the local council that as many as 23 individuals were discovered residing in the two-bedroom rental flat located on the fourth floor of Maddocks House in East London.

This extreme overcrowding was uncovered following the tragic death of one tenant, Mizanur Rahman, who died in hospital from injuries sustained in a fire caused by a defective e-bike battery in March 2023.

Judge Emma Smith that both defendants displayed a complete disregard for the safety and well-being of their tenants, which ultimately led to the tragic incident and was a “blatant disregard to the law and welfare of the occupants”, and said the rogue landlords only concern was for their “own financial gain”.

Both Sofina Begum and Aminur Rahman admitted to their offences, Sofina Begum received a fine of £10,000, was also ordered to pay £2,000 in prosecution costs, and incurred a victim surcharge of £2,000.

Additionally, she was subject to a confiscation order amounting to £78,049.

Aminur Rahman, on the other hand, was fined £2,000, and faced a victim surcharge of £800, along with a nominal confiscation order of £1.

Following the court case the bank repossessed the property.

The Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets, Lutfur Rahman, said: “It is completely unacceptable that some landlords continue to exploit tenants by allowing overcrowding, flouting essential safety regulations, and putting people’s lives at risk.