UK immigration control measures : Shocking Raids on Indian restaurants

The UK’s ongoing crackdown on illegal immigrants has expanded dramatically, targeting businesses that employ undocumented workers. Indian restaurants, nail bars, convenience stores, and car washes have become primary focus areas as the Home Office intensifies its enforcement measures.

Record-Breaking Raids Across the UK

In a nationwide operation described as a “UK-wide blitz on illegal working,” Immigration Enforcement teams raided 828 business premises in January 2024, marking a 48% increase compared to the previous year. According to the Home Office, 609 individuals were arrested, reflecting a staggering 73% rise from last year’s figures.

Among the hardest-hit industries were food service businesses, with a particular focus on Indian restaurants and takeaways. In one notable case, seven individuals were detained at an Indian restaurant in Humberside, northern England. Authorities also cracked down on the food, drink, and tobacco industries, reinforcing their commitment to enforcing immigration laws across all sectors.

Government’s Stance on Illegal Employment

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper made it clear that the government is taking a hardline stance on illegal employment. “The immigration rules must be respected and enforced. For far too long, employers have been able to take on and exploit illegal migrants, and too many people have been able to arrive and work illegally with no enforcement action ever taken,” Cooper stated.

She further emphasized that illegal employment not only undermines the job market but also encourages dangerous migration routes. “This creates a dangerous draw for people to risk their lives by crossing the Channel in small boats, leading to the abuse of vulnerable individuals, the immigration system, and the economy,” she added.

Tougher Border Security Measures on the Horizon

In response to the growing concerns over illegal migration and employment, Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Labour government is set to present the Border Security, Asylum, and Immigration Bill for a second reading in Parliament this week. The proposed legislation is aimed at dismantling criminal gangs that facilitate illegal crossings and exploitation of undocumented workers.

Key provisions of the bill include granting law enforcement agencies expanded powers to act against organized crime gangs. This includes the seizure of mobile phones from those entering the UK illegally, enabling authorities to gather intelligence and expedite legal actions.

UK: Sharp Rise in Enforcement Actions

Statistics from the Home Office reveal that between July 5, 2023, and January 31, 2024, enforcement actions against illegal working surged by 38% compared to the same period in the previous year. A total of 1,090 civil penalty notices were issued, with employers facing fines of up to GBP 60,000 per illegal worker if found guilty of non-compliance.

Eddy Montgomery, Director of Enforcement, Compliance, and Crime at the Home Office, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating illegal employment practices. “These figures demonstrate the dedication of my teams in cracking down on those who believe they can flout our immigration system,” he stated.

Large-Scale Deportations Underway

The UK government has also increased deportation efforts, conducting some of the largest migrant return flights in history. Over 800 individuals, including those convicted of serious crimes such as drug offenses, theft, rape, and murder, have been deported to various countries via bespoke charter flights.

Opposition Calls for Stronger Measures

While the Labour government pushes forward with its immigration reforms, the Opposition Conservative Party has labeled the proposed bill “weak” and insufficient to deter illegal migration. Critics argue that the measures must go further, particularly in limiting access to permanent residency for all migrants.

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