The SUN HK : 15 people arrested in latest anti-illegal work sweep

13 January 2023

By The SUN

Among those arrested were 6 women non-refoulement claimants

A total of 15 people were arrested during a four-day operation by the Immigration Department to combat anti-illegal work in the city.

A statement released by the government on Friday said 10 suspected illegal works, four employers and one overstayer were detained during the “Twilight” and “Champion” raids held from Jan. 9 to Jan. 12.

PINDUTIN PARA SA DETALYE

The suspected illegal workers arrested during the "Twilight" raids comprised two men and six women, aged 22 to 49. All the women and one of the men were found to hold recognizance forms, which prohibit them from taking up any job.

The four others – three men and one woman aged 37 to 51, were suspected to have employed the illegal workers.

Pindutin para sa detalye

They were all arrested during a sweep of 14 target locations that included an industrial building, manicure shops, premises under renovation, a residential building, restaurants, retail shops and a wet market.

During operation “Champion” immigration officers raided 14 locations in Central, and arrested two suspected illegal workers, a man aged 34 and a woman aged 38. One female overstayer aged 32, was also arrested.

PINDUTIN PARA SA DETALYE

Immigration again warned that tourists who violate their visa condition by taking up employment, whether paid or unpaid, are liable to prosecution. Those found guilty could be imprisoned for up to two years and fine a maximum of $50,000.

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The penalty is more severe for those who take up illegal work while subject of a removal or deportation order, are refused to land, or classified as illegal immigrant. They face a maximum sentence of $50,000 fine and three years in jail.

Employers of illegal workers face the most serious consequences of up to $500,000 in fine and imprisonment for up to 10 years.

PINDUTIN PARA SA DETALYE

They are reminded that they must take all steps necessary to determine whether a person is lawfully employable prior to employment. This could include checking their HKID card or valid travel document or making enquiries about their personal and work background.