Rutherglen Reformer

TAKEAWAY WORKERS HELD AFTER RAIDS AT TWO SHOPS

Food bosses facing massive fines

- Douglas Dickie

Immigratio­n officers have swooped on two food takeaways in Rutherglen and Cambuslang, arresting four illegal immigrants.

The Dragon’s Way in Stonelaw Road, Rutherglen, and the Indian Fusion at Hallside Court, Drumsagard, are now facing hefty fines.

Specially trained immigratio­n staff took part in the raids after being tipped off about

the possibilit­y of illegal workers. Stunned staff were questioned on whether they had a right to work in the United Kingdom.

A 21- year- old Malaysian man, found at The Dragon’s Way, was arrested for entering the country illegally.

Three Indian men were found at the Indian Fusion. A 38- yearold and 40-year-old were arrested for entering the country illegally, and a 43-year-old was arrested for overstayin­g his visitor visa.

The two businesses could face fines of £ 20,000 for each illegal worker unless they can demonstrat­e that appropriat­e right- to- work document checks were carried out, such as seeing a passport or Home Office document.

If proof is not provided, there is a potential total penalty of up to £20,000 for The Dragon’s Way and £60,000 for Indian Fusion.

Ian Tyldesley, assistant director for immigratio­n enforcemen­t in Scotland, told the Reformer: “This is a clear warning to those in South Lanarkshir­e abusing our immigratio­n laws, our dedicated and well-resourced teams will find you.

“Using illegal labour is not a victimless crime. It cheats the taxpayer, undercuts honest employers and means legitimate job seekers are denied employment opportunit­ies.

“It also exploits some of society’s most vulnerable people.

“We are happy to work with employers who want to adhere to the rules but those who flout them will face heavy financial penalties.

“I would urge anyone with specific informatio­n about suspected immigratio­n abuse to get in touch.”

Both raids took place on Friday, January 20. The one at the Dragon’s Way happened at 5pm while in Cambuslang officers acted at 7pm.

In October 2015, two illegal workers were uncovered at a Turkish barbers in Cambuslang.

It cheats the taxpayer and undercuts honest employers

 ??  ?? Target No.1 Dragon’s Way, Rutherglen
Target No.1 Dragon’s Way, Rutherglen
 ??  ?? Target No.2 Indian Fusion, Drumsagard
Target No.2 Indian Fusion, Drumsagard

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