Citywide anti-illegal work raids net 13 in Hong Kong
Bastillepost · 2 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong's Immigration Department carried out a multi-agency crackdown on illegal employment across several districts from September 18 to 24, targeting restaurants, construction sites and warehouses. The operation resulted in the arrest of 12 suspected illegal workers and one 38-year-old man suspected of employing illegal workers.
Key Points
- The Immigration Department said the territory-wide operation ran from September 18 to 24 and covered multiple districts across Hong Kong.
- Enforcement teams searched restaurants, construction sites and warehouses during joint actions with the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, Leisure and Cultural Services Department and Police.
- Those arrested as suspected illegal workers were nine men and three women, aged between 33 and 60.
- Among the suspected illegal workers, two men and one woman held recognizance forms, commonly known as “landing slips”, which do not permit employment.
- A 38-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of employing illegal workers, and the Immigration Department said further arrests were possible.
Why It Matters
The case points to continued enforcement pressure on both unauthorized workers and employers in sectors such as catering, logistics and construction, where inspections can be carried out without notice. The Immigration Department also reiterated that breaching a condition of stay is an offence, and visitors cannot take up employment in Hong Kong without prior approval from the Director of Immigration, whether paid or unpaid