Police swoop on illegal worker

Police have arrested an immigrant on suspicion of working illegally following a dramatic raid at an Oldham shop.

Officers seized the worker, a Pakistani national, during a swoop at Bangla Bazaar, Chadderton Way. He is now awaiting deportation proceedings.

The owner of the shop could be slapped with a £10,000 fine after he was served with a notice of public liability.

In a stark message to businesses across Oldham, Rob Evans, the immigration officer in charge of the operation, said that illegal work- ers would not be tolerated.

The UK Border Agency’s regional director for the North-West, Gill Mortlock, said: “We have teams visiting businesses across the region and anyone found to be working illegally should know that we will seek to remove them from the country.”

It was revealed that immigration officers carry out 50 enforcement operations in the North-West each week.

A tough, Australian-style points-based system for managing immigration was introduced on February 29, ensuring only those who are helping to plug a skills shortfall are allowed to come and work in the UK.

If employers are found to be breaking the law, they will lose the right to recruit from outside the European Union and will face on-the-spot fines of up to £10,000.

Employers can call the helpline on 0845 010 6677 for more information. Alternatively, visit www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk/employers

Anyone with information on illegal workers should contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.