Immigration officers in London conducted raids on dark kitchens—businesses without public dining spaces—to address illegal working. The latest crackdown saw 6,784 visits yield 4,779 arrests, a significant rise in efforts to enforce labor laws. Chief officer Sean Whippy emphasized the challenges of monitoring hidden workplaces. Many arrested workers face deportation or immigration bail, with reports of poor living conditions for detainees. The operation highlights the risks associated with underground labor markets, where exploitation thrives away from public scrutiny.
"If they're tucked away, who is monitoring that? There is nowhere for the public to report bad working conditions."
"Since July 2024 Immigration Enforcement has carried out 6,784 illegal working visits to premises and made 4,779 arrests an increase of 40% and 42% compared to the same period 12 months ago."
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