Immigration raid in Longridge sees suspected illegal worker arrested by Border Force

A view of the end of Berry Lane in Longridge where Border Force activity took place. Pic: Blog Preston.

A man from Iraq was arrested on suspicion of working illegally in the UK during a raid at a shop in Berry Lane, Longridge this week.

Home Office immigration officers executed a warrant at a premises in Berry Lane on Tuesday (4 February) in relation to suspected illegal working, following a referral from Lancashire Trading Standards.

An Iraqi national was arrested following immigration checks and was subsequently bailed. The individual did not have permission to work in the UK and is suspected of doing so, the Home Office said.

A Home Office spokesperson said: “We are determined to clampdown both on illegal working and the exploitation of illegal workers.

“As part of our Plan for Change, this government is taking action against this criminal industry at every level, stepping up enforcement activity at businesses where illegal working is taking place, and increasing our arrests of illegal workers and those who employ them.”

A Civil Penalty Referral Notice has been served on the business.

The Home Office when asked would not confirmed the name of the business which was raided but Blog Preston understands it to be a vape and sweet shop.

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