Hunger for cheap labor sees 29 arrested

The Immigration Department has arrested 26 illegal renovation workers -- 25 having entered Hong Kong claiming to be mainland tourists and one worker from Indonesia – and three Hong Kong employers during an operation combating illegal workers.

Deputy Commander of the Immigration Department Siu Ka-fai said at a press briefing today that the campaign was launched last week in anticipation of the Lunar New Year, a time when Hongkongers typically renovate their homes.

He said many employers or citizens prefer to hire cheap labor for renovation or cleaning services, but lack awareness of legal employment.

“Although the cost of services is important, it is equally important to ensure that service providers or employees are legally employed,” he said.

He urged that all visitors are not allowed to take up any employment in Hong Kong, whether paid or unpaid, without the prior permission of the Director of Immigration.

"While illegal workers will face criminal liability, those who employ people who are not lawfully employable will also face severe penalties," he said.

Offenders will be prosecuted and are liable upon conviction to a maximum fine of HK$50,000 and imprisonment for two years, he added.