The United Kingdom has reported what it described as historic levels of enforcement action against illegal working, including a sharp rise in workplace raids and arrests, according to a PTI report citing official data.
UK authorities said the intensified action forms part of a broader crackdown on illegal migration and unauthorised employment. The figures, released by the government, indicate a significant increase in inspections carried out across sectors such as construction, hospitality and retail.
According to PTI, officials said the rise in enforcement reflects expanded use of intelligence-led operations and closer coordination between immigration and labour authorities. Employers found to be hiring individuals without the legal right to work face penalties, including fines and potential prosecution.
The report noted that the government has positioned the crackdown as a deterrent, aimed at disrupting illegal labour markets and discouraging irregular migration routes. Officials said enforcement action would continue as part of efforts to strengthen border and immigration controls.
PTI reported that migrant rights groups have raised concerns in the past about the impact of raids on vulnerable workers, but the government maintains that enforcement is necessary to uphold immigration laws and protect legitimate employment.
The latest figures come amid heightened political focus on migration in the UK, with illegal crossings and asylum backlogs remaining key issues in public debate.
The report did not provide a breakdown of arrests by nationality or sector, nor did it specify whether additional legislative measures are planned to accompany the enforcement drive.