The UK government has intensified its efforts to tackle illegal working. January 2025 marked the busiest month for enforcement in over five years. This surge comes as the Border Security, Asylum, and Immigration Bill returns to Parliament on Monday, 10 February.
Tackling illegal working is crucial to the government’s strategy of dismantling criminal gangs. These gangs deceive people into making dangerous Channel crossings, offering fake jobs. Once in the UK, these individuals face exploitation, poor living conditions, and low pay. The government is determined to end this cycle of abuse.
Record-Breaking Enforcement Efforts in January
In January alone, Immigration Enforcement teams raided 828 locations, including nail bars, restaurants, and car washes. This represents a 48% increase from the previous year. In addition, the teams arrested 609 individuals, a significant rise from 352 in January 2024. This activity is part of a broader plan to crack down on illegal working and target smuggling operations.
From 5 July to 31 January, enforcement actions surged by 38%. The Home Office also issued 1,090 penalty notices during this period. Employers who hire illegal workers can face fines of up to £60,000 per individual.
The Dangers of Illegal Working
Illegal working is not only harmful to workers but also undermines the UK economy. Many migrants are lured with promises of legal work and a better life. Instead, they find themselves trapped in exploitative jobs, working long hours for little pay. Rogue employers often avoid taxes and undercut businesses that follow the law.
Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, emphasized, “For too long, employers have exploited illegal migrants, which encourages dangerous crossings and undermines our immigration system and economy.”
Targeting High-Risk Sectors
A large portion of enforcement activity in January focused on the food and hospitality industries. Teams visited restaurants, takeaways, and grocery stores. For example, in Cheshire, authorities arrested 10 individuals for immigration violations and 2 for possessing counterfeit documents. Similarly, in Humberside, 7 people were arrested at an Indian restaurant. In South London, a raid on a warehouse led to 6 arrests.
The government works closely with the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority to protect workers from exploitation. Eddy Montgomery, Director of Enforcement, Compliance, and Crime, noted, “Our commitment to stopping exploitation is stronger than ever. We will keep ramping up our efforts to protect vulnerable people.”
Stronger Border Security and Global Cooperation
Alongside local enforcement, the UK is working with other countries to prevent illegal immigration. Recently, the government launched a new campaign in Vietnam and Albania to warn people about the dangers of illegal crossings. Through real-life stories, migrants share the harsh reality of exploitation and debt that many face after arriving in the UK.
The Border Security, Asylum, and Immigration Bill aims to further disrupt smuggling networks. The bill grants law enforcement additional powers to act before criminals can evade justice. For instance, officers will be able to seize mobile phones from migrants to gather evidence prior to arrest.
Moving Forward
The UK government’s strategy is clear. By ramping up enforcement, increasing international cooperation, and passing stronger laws, they aim to put an end to illegal working and secure the country’s borders. The Home Office will host a Border Security Summit in March 2025 to discuss new ways to tackle immigration crime and collaborate with international partners.
For the latest UK news updates, follow Coleman News.
