Arrests during factory immigration raids

Indian nationals were taken into custody

Immigration enforcement made 12 arrests during raids of neighbouring factories, the Home Office has said.

Officers said 11 men and one woman, all Indian nationals, were taken into custody suspected of immigration offences including illegal working and breaching visa conditions.

It came after they received intelligence about illegal working taking place in Tipton, West Midlands.

The two locations included a bedding factory and one producing cakes.

Four of the offenders were detained pending consideration for removal from the UK while the remaining eight were bailed with conditions, the Home Office added.

Fines increased

Minister for countering illegal migration Michael Tomlinson said businesses faced punishment if they employed illegal workers without conducting relevant checks.

"This operation is a clear example of the way we are stepping up immigration enforcement activity across the country," he said.

In February, ministers said they would triple fines for employers who allowed illegal migrants to work for them.

The fines for a so-called first breach have risen from £15,000 to £45,000 per illegal worker.

Repeat breaches within three years can see businesses fined £60,000.