Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.
The UK government has reported a significant increase in arrests linked to migrants working illegally across the country, attributing this rise to intensified enforcement efforts. According to the Home Office, operations targeting businesses like nail salons, car washes, barbershops, and takeaways have surged by 77% since Labour assumed power, resulting in an 83% jump in the number of arrests. Opposition figures argue that the availability of illegal employment opportunities acts as a strong incentive for migrants attempting perilous journeys across the Channel.
In 2025, over 41,000 people made the hazardous crossing, marking the highest total since 2022 and nearly 5,000 more than the year before. Conservative shadow home secretary Chris Philp criticized the current administration’s approach, stating, “illegal working is booming because Labour have turned Britain into a soft touch.” He added, “As long as people who arrive illegally can work, earn, and stay, smugglers have a sales pitch, a reward they dangle in front of those crossing the Channel.”
Data from the Home Office reveals that the rise in immigration-related arrests during business raids predates the Labour government but has accelerated recently. Between July 2024 and December 2025, enforcement teams conducted raids on more than 17,400 businesses, a 77% increase compared to the previous 18 months. These actions have resulted in over 12,300 arrests, an 83% increase. Arrests have grown in every region, with London leading at more than 2,100 arrests in 2025—a 47% rise compared to 2024. The West Midlands and south-west England also saw substantial increases, with rises of 76% and 91%, respectively. Northern Ireland noted 187 raids and 234 arrests, reflecting increases of 76% and 169%.
Specific enforcement actions illustrate the scope of operations: a warehouse raid in Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex, on 25 November led to 13 arrests, with 11 Brazilian and Romanian nationals detained for deportation. Similarly, a construction site in Swindon was raided on 16 December, resulting in 30 arrests predominantly involving Indian and Albanian men, most of whom faced removal. Another raid at Kempton Park racecourse in Surrey on 11 December led to 11 arrests. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasized the government’s commitment: “There is no place for illegal working in our communities… I will stop at nothing to restore order and control to our borders.” The increase in enforcement activity follows an additional £5 million allocated to Immigration Enforcement last year, alongside plans to implement mandatory digital ID checks by 2029 to reduce illegal work opportunities
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.