ImmD arrests 20 in citywide anti-illegal worker operation

The Immigration Department (ImmD) has concluded a four-day citywide operation targeting illegal employment, resulting in 20 arrests across the city. 

The operation, which began last Saturday (Jan 3), spanned 42 locations, including restaurants, retail shops, food factories, guesthouses, and commercial and residential buildings.

Among those arrested were 12 suspected illegal workers and 8 alleged—comprising 10 men and 10 women—aged between 24 and 68.

The majority of the arrested workers were from Indonesia and the Philippines and included one foreign domestic helper, two overstaying former domestic helpers, three holders of a recognizance form (which prohibits employment), one visitor, and five overstaying visitors.

The eight local residents arrested—seven men and one woman—were owners or managers of the companies or restaurants involved.

In a surprise raid last Saturday at a food factory in Kwai Chung, officers arrested five Indonesian illegal workers and two company owners.

During the operation, evidence, including cooking utensils and food packaging, was seized.

Though licensed, the factory allegedly set up an unauthorized production line to supply the owners' restaurants, possibly to reduce costs. Products were sold via expos and events. 

The operation reportedly ran for one to two months, with workers recruited through referrals and paid HK$200 daily.

Other workers held jobs as dishwashers, waiters, kitchen helpers, and cleaners in restaurants and guesthouses.

The department reiterated a "zero-tolerance" stance toward illegal labor, adding that investigations are ongoing and further arrests are possible.

Authorities reminded the public that hiring illegal workers is also a serious offense, carrying a maximum penalty of a HK$500,000 fine and 10-year imprisonment. 

Employers are urged to verify job applicants' valid identity documents and take all practicable steps to ensure their legal eligibility to work in the city. 

Meanwhile, violators of stay conditions are liable to prosecution and, upon conviction, face a maximum fine of HK$50,000 and up to two years' imprisonment. 

Notably, illegal immigrants, individuals under removal orders, overstayers, or refused entrants taking up paid or unpaid employment or operating any business are liable to a HK$50,000 fine and three years' imprisonment.