Hong Kong anti-illegal work raids arrest 38 people
SingTao · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong authorities carried out a week-long, multi-agency crackdown on illegal employment across several districts, searching restaurants, markets and warehouses citywide. The operation resulted in 38 arrests, including 31 suspected illegal workers, four suspected employers and three suspected overstayers. Among the suspected illegal workers, four people were holders of recognizance forms, commonly known as “walking papers”, who are not allowed to take employment in Hong Kong. The Immigration Department said investigations are continuing into work arrangements, wage payments and employment relationships, and more arrests have not been ruled out
Key Points
- The enforcement drive began last Friday and ran for seven consecutive days across multiple districts in Hong Kong.
- Operations included the Immigration Department’s Dawn Operation and joint actions with the Labour Department, Police, Customs and Excise Department, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, and Leisure and Cultural Services Department
- Officers searched target locations including restaurants, street markets and warehouses during the territory-wide anti-illegal labour campaign.
- The 31 suspected illegal workers comprised 21 men and 10 women aged between 20 and 60.
- Four male suspected employers aged 23 to 51 and three female overstayers aged 32 to 58 were also arrested.
Why It Matters
The case shows that enforcement against illegal employment is being pursued through coordinated action by several Hong Kong departments rather than by immigration officers alone. For employers and workers, the continuing investigation into pay arrangements and employment links means legal exposure may extend beyond those already arrested