Ten Evri workers arrested in UK immigration enforcement operations
Government crackdown targets illegal working in delivery sector
Last updated 13 hours ago
Ten workers at Evri delivery services have been arrested as part of the Government's latest crackdown on illegal working in the UK delivery sector.
The Home Office revealed that these arrests occurred during three separate operations, resulting in the individuals being placed on immigration bail, subject to strict conditions as investigations continue.
Plans are underway to remove those arrested from the UK, according to a Government statement.
During a visit to Evri in Redditch, Worcestershire, on 8th July, a Pakistani national was detained for overstaying.
Further arrests took place on 9th July at Evri premises in Croydon, south London, involving three Brazilian nationals, two Pakistani nationals, and an Indian national for various immigration offences.
Actions continued on 15th July, with officers visiting Evri in Crawley, West Sussex, apprehending three overstayers, including a Gambian national, a Ghanaian national, and another Pakistani national.
The liable employer risks facing substantial fines, potentially amounting to £60,000 per worker, if illegal workers were employed without the necessary pre-employment checks.
Eddy Montgomery, director of enforcement, compliance and crime at the Home Office, expressed gratitude, stating:
“I want to thank my officers up and down the country who carry out these operations every day. We are committed to working closely with companies to ensure they are compliant. However, we will never hesitate to take enforcement action to crack down on those who flout the law.”
A spokesperson for Evri asserted their commitment to employment responsibilities, noting that right-to-work checks are performed for all employees.
Evri assured continued cooperation with the Home Office amidst ongoing inquiries.