10th January 2025 – (Hong Kong) From 7th to 9th January, the Immigration Department (ImmD) launched a series of territory-wide operations, codenamed “Lightshadow” and “Twilight,” alongside joint efforts with the Hong Kong Police Force under the codenames “Champion” and “Windsand.” These initiatives led to the arrest of four suspected illegal workers, one suspected employer, and two overstayers.
During the operations, ImmD Task Force officers executed raids at 30 targeted locations, including commercial buildings, a hair salon, and restaurants. The four arrested individuals included three men and one woman, aged between 31 and 52. Notably, three of the men were holders of recognisance forms, which prohibit them from engaging in employment. Additionally, one man was found in possession of a forged Hong Kong identity card. A 36-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of employing one of the illegal workers.
In the “Champion” operation, enforcement officers targeted 46 locations in the Mong Kok district, resulting in the arrest of two female overstayers, both aged 48.
An ImmD spokesperson stated, “Anyone who violates their conditions of stay is committing an offence. Visitors are prohibited from taking up employment in Hong Kong without permission from the Director of Immigration. Offenders can face prosecution, with penalties including a maximum fine of $50,000 and up to two years’ imprisonment.”
The spokesperson further warned that illegal immigrants, individuals under removal or deportation orders, overstayers, and those refused permission to land are all prohibited from employment. Violators face up to three years’ imprisonment and fines of up to $50,000. Additionally, possessing or using a forged Hong Kong identity card can result in a maximum fine of $100,000 and up to ten years’ imprisonment.
The spokesperson reiterated the seriousness of employing individuals who are not lawfully employable. The penalty for employers who hire illegal workers has been significantly increased to a maximum fine of $500,000 and ten years’ imprisonment. Company directors and managers may also face criminal liability, with the High Court indicating that custodial sentences should be imposed on employers of illegal workers.
Employers are urged to take all necessary steps to verify the lawful employability of prospective employees. This includes inspecting valid identity cards and travel documents, as failure to do so will not be accepted as a defence in legal proceedings. Employers who neglect to check valid travel documents face fines of up to $150,000 and one year of imprisonment.
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