In a series of raids targeting illegal employment across Hong Kong, immigration authorities last week arrested five alleged members of a sophisticated syndicate that profited from outsourcing cleaning contracts using unauthorized labor.
Over three days last week, immigration agents carried out pre-dawn raids on 16 locations—including restaurants and residential properties—detaining a total of 33 people as part of an investigation launched earlier this year. Those arrested included the suspected ringleaders of the syndicate, aged 25 to 64, as well as 20 people believed to be working illegally and eight alleged employer accomplices.
An immigration department spokesman said the syndicate had been operating for at least six months, generating over HK$17 million by supplying illegal workers to over 50 restaurants under the false pretense they were authorized. If convicted, offenders face up to two years in prison and fines of HK$50,000.
During the cross-city operation, agents uncovered three forged identity cards and seized records, contracts, electronics and bank statements as evidence. The spokesman warned that nonresidents working without permission and those aiding such violations would be prosecuted.
The case highlights the ongoing problem of exploitative underground rings preying on vulnerable migrants by supplying cheap unlawful labor to certain industries. Immigration authorities said the investigation remains open and more arrests are possible. The raids aim to crack down on illegal employment and send a message that such criminal schemes will not be tolerated.
