Three individuals have been arrested on Layhams Road, West Wickham, near Bromley, over suspected immigration offences following a coordinated raid by Border Force immigration officers and the Metropolitan Police.
The operation took place on February 18, as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to clamp down on illegal working and immigration offences across the UK.
Details of the Arrests
A Brazilian man and a Brazilian woman were arrested on suspicion of overstaying their leave to enter the United Kingdom, while a Romanian woman was detained for allegedly entering the country without clearance from an Immigration Officer.
A spokesperson from the Home Office confirmed the arrests and emphasized the government’s ongoing strategy to tackle illegal immigration. “We are determined to clamp down both on illegal working and the exploitation of illegal workers. As part of our Plan for Change, this government is taking action against Organised Immigration Crime at every level, including stepping up our raids and increasing our arrests of illegal workers and the people who employ them,” the spokesperson said.
Police Confirm Operation Success
The Metropolitan Police also confirmed the successful execution of the warrant via social media. In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), the Biggin Hill & Darwin Safer Neighbourhoods Team wrote: “Biggin Hill & Darwin Safer Neighbourhoods Team executed a warrant with Border Force down Layhams Road today. Three have been arrested for immigration offences.”
The operation was carried out smoothly, with no reports of resistance or further incidents during the raid.
Part of a Nationwide Crackdown
The raid comes amid a broader government drive to increase inspections and raids on businesses such as restaurants, car washes, nail bars, and construction sites — sectors often linked with illegal working. The initiative aims not only to remove individuals without legal right to remain in the UK but also to hold employers accountable for hiring undocumented workers.
In recent months, the Home Office has significantly ramped up enforcement efforts, leading to an uptick in arrests and deportations related to immigration offences.
Community Reactions and Legal Proceedings
Residents in West Wickham expressed mixed feelings about the raid. “It’s unsettling to see this happening so close to home, but I understand that the authorities have to enforce the law,” said Karen Phillips, a local resident.
Legal proceedings regarding the three individuals are now underway. The two Brazilian nationals face removal proceedings for overstaying their visas, while the Romanian woman will undergo further assessment regarding her entry status.
Employers are also reminded that knowingly hiring individuals without the legal right to work can result in heavy fines and criminal charges.
How to Report Suspected Immigration Offences
The Home Office encourages members of the public to report any suspected immigration offences confidentially.
- Report online: Home Office Report Service
- Call Crimestoppers anonymously: 0800 555 111
This is a developing story, and more updates will follow as further details become available.
