Gig drivers arrested in crackdown on illegal working across UK
Home Office targets Deliveroo, Just Eat, Uber Eats drivers
The Home Office has launched a tough crackdown on illegal working by gig economy drivers following a spike in immigration offences. Across six days in April, officers swooped on drivers working for Deliveroo, Just Eat, and Uber Eats. Arrests were made over illegal working and possession of fake documents.
But the haul didn’t stop there – officers also seized weapons and thousands in cash linked to criminal activity during the raids.
Intelligence-led operation uncovers hotspots for illegal moped deliveries
Immigration Enforcement conducted detailed intelligence ahead of the blitz to pinpoint hotspots used by illegal moped couriers. Working with police forces, the Home Office carried out arrests and detentions from 16 to 21 April.
This clampdown is part of the government’s drive to protect the UK economy. It aims to ensure that companies and workers follow tax rules and prevent illegal migration, which often exploits vulnerable people and damages the labour market.
44 detained, mostly Brazilians caught red-handed
Of those arrested, 44 were detained by the Home Office awaiting removal from the country, while 16 were released on immigration bail. Some of those caught are expected to leave voluntarily.
The majority of offenders were Brazilian nationals. Others from India and Algeria were also found working illegally.
Weapons and cash seized in property raids
Thorough searches of linked properties uncovered imitation firearms and other weapons. Officers have also seized over £4,500 in suspected criminal proceeds.
Officials vow to drive out illegal working from UK labour market
Home Secretary Suella Braverman said:
“Illegal working damages our communities, cheats honest workers out of employment and defrauds the public purse. As the Prime Minister has set out, we are committed to going further and faster to prevent the abuse of our laws and borders.”
“The British public deserve a labour market that is fair and honest and must have confidence that goods and services they buy are from legitimate businesses.”
Eddy Montgomery, Director of Enforcement, Compliance and Crime added:
“This is a really positive result and shows why the work we do is so important.”
“By raising awareness of the risks and consequences of illegal working, we are helping ensure businesses comply with the rules. Our teams work around the clock to deter immigration offending and protect public safety.”
Warning to employers: jail and fines await
All UK employers must prevent illegal working. Those caught employing workers without the right to work face up to 5 years in jail and unlimited fines.
