United Kingdom Immigration Enforcement officers have arrested more than 4,700 people working illegally in the country during the first six months of 2026.

Official figures show 4,756 arrests were made between January and June, representing a 20 per cent rise compared with the same period in 2025.

Officers also conducted 7,270 raids on businesses, a 31 per cent increase year-on-year, as authorities intensify efforts against illegal working. The Home Office described the period as the most successful six months for such enforcement in British history.

London recorded the highest number of arrests at 1,256, followed by the West Midlands with 701 and the South West with 693. Employers in sectors including beauty, retail and hospitality have so far been hit with £74 million in civil penalties this year.

Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood said the surge in activity shows illegal workers and rogue employers have nowhere to hide. The government has already begun increasing penalties for companies that hire illegal workers.

From October 1, employers caught employing illegal workers in the economy, such as delivery riders, could face fines of up to £60,000 per illegal worker or five years in prison.

The Home Office noted that more than 17,000 illegal working arrests have been made since July 2024.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper