Illegal immigrants arrested in Llanidloes

Two illegal immigrants have been arrested by UK Border Agency officials following a raid on the Bengal Brasserie in Longbridge Street, Llanidloes. It followed a raid in Welshpool where two other men were arrested.

The four men are from Bangladesh and have been placed on immigration bail and must report to local police stations until they are deported following the raids last week. UK Border Agency investigators said both raids followed tip-offs.

A 34-year-old kitchen worker working at the Bengal Brasserie was found to have entered the UK illegally, while a 40-year-old waiter had overstayed his visa, according to officials. In the raid in Welshpool, a 36-year-old chef had stayed in the UK illegally after his visa had expired, and a second man found during a search of the restaurant was found to have entered the UK illegally.

Julian Smith, who heads the UK Border Agency's team in South West Wales, said: "We carry out regular operations across mid Wales targeting illegal workers and immigration offenders at businesses and home addresses. We are sending a simple, clear message to people flouting the law – more raids are planned and you will be caught. By law, employers must check that their staff have the right to work in the UK and we are happy to provide help for people who want to play by the rules.

Bengal Brasserie and Spice UK face civil penalty fines of up to £10,000 for each illegal worker employed. To avoid a fine, the employers must provide evidence that the correct checks were made before the illegal staff were taken on.

Every year, the UK Border Agency imposes civil penalties on thousands of companies which fail to carry out legally-required checks on their staff. The agency provides a range of support to employers so they understand the rules, from compliance visits to a dedicated telephone helpline and website. Anyone who suspects that illegal workers are being employed at a business can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.