UK arrests over 4,700 illegal workers in H1 2026
UK Immigration Enforcement arrested over 4,700 illegal workers in the first half of 2026, a 20% rise, intensifying crackdown on illegal working. Read More: https://punchng.com/uk-arrests-over-4700-illegal-workers-in-h1-2026/
UK authorities made over 4,700 arrests of illegal workers during the first six months of 2026, marking a 20% increase compared to the same period in 2025, according to the Home Office. This marked the most successful six-month period in British history for illegal working enforcement. Immigration Enforcement officers conducted 7,270 raids on businesses, a 31% rise from the previous year.
London alone recorded 1,256 arrests, a 32% increase. The Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, claimed this surge in enforcement was unprecedented. Reform UK, however, accused Labour of insulting the British public's intelligence by presenting the new figures positively. The Home Office announced plans to increase penalties for employers hiring illegal workers, with fines potentially reaching £60,000 per worker or five years in prison starting October 1.
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