Three men arrested for immigration offences at Horsham takeaway

Three men were arrested on suspicion of immigration offences following an operation at a takeaway in Horsham yesterday (Thursday December 11).
Spice Nights in Queen Street, Horsham. Picture : Liz Pearce. LP240914SN03 SUS-140924-165252008Spice Nights in Queen Street, Horsham. Picture : Liz Pearce. LP240914SN03 SUS-140924-165252008
Spice Nights in Queen Street, Horsham. Picture : Liz Pearce. LP240914SN03 SUS-140924-165252008

Immigration Enforcement officers from the Home Office arrested three men from Bangladesh, aged 34, 43 and 45, after the raid at Spice Nights in Queen Street at about 5pm.

The takeaway could also face a fine of up to £60,000, the Home Office said.

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A spokesperson for the Home Office said the men were interviewed and have been granted temporary release, though they will have to report regularly to the Home Office while the case progresses.

The spokesperson added: “Spice Nights Takeaway was served a notice warning they are liable for a financial penalty of up to £20,000 per illegal worker, unless they provide evidence that legally-required pre-employment checks were carried out, such as seeing a Home Office document or passport.

“This is a total potential fine of £60,000.”

Assistant director Richard Lederle, from the Kent and Sussex Home Office Immigration Enforcement team, said: “Businesses who employ illegal workers are defrauding the taxpayer, undercutting genuine employers and denying work to legitimate job hunters.

“We are happy to work with employers who want to play by the rules but those who break the law will face the consequences.

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“People with detailed and specific information about suspected immigration abuse should contact us.”

Information to help employers carry out checks to prevent illegal working can be found by clicking here.

The Home Office has urged anyone with information about suspected immigration abuse to contact them or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.