Hong Kong anti-illegal labour operation arrests ten
Hong Kong's Immigration Department arrested ten people in an anti-illegal labour operation. The department warned employers face up to HK$500,000 fines and ten years' jail for hiring illegal workers.
Hong Kong's Immigration Department announced on 30 October that an anti-illegal labour operation had resulted in the arrest of ten people. A department spokesman said that anyone violating a condition of stay or working without prior approval from the Director of Immigration commits an offence, even if unpaid.
Under the Immigration Ordinance, convicted illegal workers face a maximum fine of HK$50,000 and two years' imprisonment. Those who aid or abet such offences are equally liable. The spokesman warned that illegal entrants, persons subject to removal or deportation orders, overstayers and refused entrants face up to HK$50,000 in fines and three years' jail for taking up paid or unpaid employment.
The department highlighted that employers who hire persons not entitled to work face significantly increased penalties: a maximum fine of HK$500,000 and ten years' imprisonment, up from HK$350,000 and three years. Company directors, managers, secretaries and partners may also face criminal liability. The Court of Appeal has issued sentencing guidelines requiring immediate custodial sentences for such offences.
Employers must take all practicable steps to verify a worker's right to work. This includes checking the identity card and, for non-permanent residents, valid travel documents. Failure to do so can result in a fine of up to HK$150,000 and one year's imprisonment. The spokesman urged employers not to break the law, adding that the department will continue strict enforcement.
The department follows standard procedures to identify victims of trafficking or forced labour, including initial screening of vulnerable individuals such as illegal workers, illegal entrants, sex workers and foreign domestic helpers. Identified victims receive emergency intervention, medical treatment, counselling, shelter and other support. The department called on victims to report such offences immediately.
Members of the public can report illegal employment via the dedicated hotline 185 185, fax 2824 1166, email [email protected], or the online reporting form on the Immigration Department's website.