Voice of People, London, 8 February:
The UK government has deported nearly 50,000 irregular migrants over the past 18 months as part of a tougher nationwide crackdown on illegal immigration and unlawful work, according to new Home Office data.

Between July 2024 and December 2025, immigration enforcement teams conducted more than 17,400 raids across the country—an increase of 77% compared to the previous period. Arrests for illegal working rose by 83%, reflecting a sharp escalation in field‑level enforcement since the Labour government took office.

Authorities focused on sectors long associated with undocumented labour, including nail salons, car‑wash centres, barbershops, takeaway restaurants, and small businesses. The Home Office says illegal employment in these industries undermines the legal labour market and fuels human‑trafficking networks.

People from multiple nationalities were detained during the operations, with many placed into immediate removal procedures and sent back to their home countries. Official figures show that deportations increased by 23% compared to the previous year.

Northern Ireland also saw a significant rise in enforcement activity. In 2025, authorities conducted 187 raids and arrested 234 people—a 76% increase in raids and a 169% rise in arrests from the year before.

The government argues that shutting down illegal work opportunities is essential to reducing dangerous small‑boat crossings. Smuggling gangs often lure migrants with promises of unlawful jobs, making the dismantling of illicit labour markets a key part of the UK’s border‑security strategy.

As part of the crackdown, immigration officers have been equipped with body‑worn video technology to strengthen evidence collection during arrests and prosecutions. Under the new Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Act, “right to work” checks are being expanded to include casual and temporary jobs.

However, the government has abandoned plans for a mandatory digital ID for workers. While verification systems will gradually move fully online, employees will not be required to obtain a separate government‑issued digital ID.

Eddie Montgomery, Director of Immigration, Compliance and Enforcement at the Home Office, said that despite recent progress, the crackdown is far from over. Operations will continue across cities, towns, and rural areas to enforce immigration laws.

Warning for Bangladeshi Migrants in the UK

Immigration experts are urging Bangladeshi expatriates to keep their documents and right‑to‑work papers updated and properly stored. Those in casual or temporary jobs are facing stricter checks. Workers are advised to ensure employer verification, keep copies of contracts, and regularly check their status through the Home Office’s online system to avoid legal risks.