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"Immigration investigators mounted an operation against illegal workers today and arrested 15 persons, comprising 11 illegal workers and 4 local employers," said a spokesman for the Immigration Department today (May 29).

43 Immigration investigators were mobilized to conduct raids in Bedford Garden, North Point in the morning. Premises which were undergoing renovation were searched. In another part of the operation launched in the afternoon, 30 Immigration investigators raided at a former department store in Mongkok which was under renovation for other purpose.

As a result, 11 illegal workers, comprising 9 men and 2 women aged between 30 and 46, were arrested. They were all Mainland visitors. Another 4 male Hong Kong residents, being suspected to have employed these illegal workers, were also arrested.

"The operation aimed at combating illegal workers performing decoration work and their employers. Following a recent discussion with owners and property management companies to enhance record keeping of flats under renovation and the particulars of that owners, contractors and workers, number of illegal workers taking up decoration work declined significantly. Today's operation shows the joint efforts between the Immigration Department and property management companies yields good result," said the spokesman.

" Visitors are not allowed to take up employment, whether paid or unpaid, without the prior permission from the Director of Immigration. Offenders are liable to prosecution and upon conviction to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for two years. Aiders and abettors are also liable to prosecution and penalty. It is also an offence to employ persons who are not lawfully employable. The maximum penalty is a fine of $350,000 and imprisonment for three years," reiterated the spokesman.

End/Thursday, May 29, 2003

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