In a major operation carried out by the Home Office, a remarkable number of visits were conducted across the United Kingdom to target illegal workers. The result was an unprecedented 105 arrests of foreign nationals caught working without proper authorization, all part of 159 visits specifically aimed at tackling this issue.
The operation focused on a wide range of commercial establishments, including restaurants, car washes, nail bars, barber shops and convenience stores. Offenders were apprehended for various offenses, such as engaging in illegal work and possessing counterfeit documentation. At certain locations, substantial amounts of cash were seized.
The significance of the operation was underscored by the presence of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who personally observed Immigration Enforcement officers in action during an early morning visit to Brent, North London.
Speaking about the operation, Home Secretary Suella Braverman highlighted the detrimental effects of illegal working on communities, law-abiding workers, and the economy. “Illegal working harms our communities, deprives honest workers of job opportunities, and defrauds the public purse by evading taxes,” stated Braverman. “We are determined to combat the abuse of our laws and borders.”
The Home Office recognizes that the allure of off-the-books employment serves as a powerful incentive for migrants contemplating dangerous and unlawful journeys to the UK. Operations like the one conducted yesterday send a clear and unequivocal message that such activities will not be tolerated.
Out of the 105 individuals arrested, the Home Office has detained over 40 pending their removal from the UK. The remaining suspects were released on immigration bail. Additionally, authorities expect that a number of the arrests will result in voluntary departures from the country.
It is noteworthy that the arrested offenders represent more than 20 different nationalities, underscoring the global nature of the problem.
This operation builds on the ongoing efforts of Immigration Enforcement officers to clamp down on illegal working, which forms a crucial component of the government’s comprehensive strategy to address illegal migration. By dismantling the criminal networks that exploit black market employment as a means to facilitate illegal entry, the government aims to disrupt the business model behind illegal migration.
Statistics from the first quarter of 2023 reveal a staggering 57% increase in enforcement visits conducted by Immigration Enforcement teams compared to the same period last year, with arrests doubling since the Prime Minister announced his plan to tackle the issue in December.
Eddy Montgomery, the Director of Enforcement, Compliance, and Crime, commended the unwavering commitment and professionalism of the officers involved in the operation. Montgomery stressed the importance of not only identifying individuals in violation of immigration laws but also targeting the networks responsible for people smuggling and other related criminal activities. This collaborative approach involves close cooperation with law enforcement agencies such as the police and the National Crime Agency.
The record-breaking number of arrests made during this nationwide operation sends a strong message that the UK remains steadfast in safeguarding the integrity of its immigration system. By taking decisive action against illegal working, the government aims to protect the public and ensure fair employment opportunities for those seeking lawful employment in the country.
