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| One of those arrested was working in a restaurant |
Despite the weekly raids, many illegal workers appear to persist working in such hotspots as restaurants, flats under renovation and warehouses across Hong Kong.
In the latest operation carried out by the Immigration and Labour Department, together with Hong Kong Police from June 18 to 25, 36 people were again arrested on suspicion of either working as illegal workers or acting as their employers.
A statement issued by Immigration said those arrested comprised 21 suspected illegal workers, eight employers and seven overstayers.
The suspected illegal workers comprised 12 men and nine women, aged 25 to 54. They included four men holding recognizance forms which allow them to stay in Hong Kong while their applications opposing their return home are still being considered. However, they are not allowed to work.
Six men and two women, aged 30 to 77, were suspected of employing the workers, and were also arrested.
The seven arrested overstayers were all women, aged 33 to 58.
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| One of the 12 men arrested is taken away for questioning |
Immigration said an investigation of the suspected employers is ongoing, and the possibility of further arrests is not ruled out.
The statement reiterated the warning that illegal work is a serious offence in Hong Kong, for which imprisonment is prescribed by the court.
Everyone found working in Hong Kong without the consent of the Immigration Director can be jailed for up to two and three years, and fined HK$50,000.
The higher maximum penalty is prescribed for those who commit other offences, such as overstaying their visa, coming in as illegal immigrants or are on recognizance.
Employers face a maximum jail term of 10 years and $500,000 fine. All employers are mandated by law to exercise due diligence in hiring workers, including not just checking their HKID cards or passports but making sure they are allowed by law to take up work.
To report suspected illegal employment activities, call the dedicated hotline 185 185, fax at 2824 1166, email anti_crime@immd.gov.hk, or submit the "Online Reporting of Immigration Offences" form at www.immd.gov.hk.
