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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Anahita Hossein-Pour

Arrests of illegal workers reach record highs amid immigration crackdown: ‘There is nowhere to hide’

Immigration Home Office

New figures reveal a significant surge in enforcement actions against illegal working in the UK, with both visits to businesses and arrests reaching their highest levels since records began in 2019.

Data indicates that 12,791 visits were conducted in 2025 to establishments such as nail bars, car washes, barbers, and takeaway shops.

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