Holytown takeaway in trouble over illegal worker

In partnership with Police Scotland officers from Immigration Enforcement carried out visits to several premises across North Lanarkshire on Friday (May 20) interviewing staff to check they had the right to live and work in the UK.

At the Spicy Cottage in Main Street, Holytown, a 51-year-old Indian man was escorted from the premises as he was not entitled to work and must report to the Home Office while his case is progressed.

Spicy Cottage now faces a potential penalty of up to £20,000, unless they can demonstrate the correct right to work checks were carried out, such as seeing a passport or Home Office document confirming permission to work.

Four Indian men were also arrested for working illegally in Wishaw, two at Speedy’s Tandoori and another two at Spice Temple, while a fifth was caught at Cafe Spice in Airdrie.

All five have been detained while steps are taken to remove them from the country.

In addition an 18-year-old man who was not entitled to work was escorted from Americano’s Hot Chilli’s in Coatbridge and must continue to report to the Home Office.

Like Spicy Cottage each of the premises faces a fine of up to £20,000 per illegal worker.

Stephen Roarty, from Immigration Enforcement, said: “This is a clear warning to those in Scotland abusing our immigration laws that, wherever you are in the country, our dedicated and well-resourced teams will find you.

“The use of illegal labour is not victimless. It defrauds the taxpayer, undercuts genuine employers and denies legitimate job hunters work.

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

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

Anyone with information about suspected immigration abuse can report it online or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.