Published: June 18, 2009
Turkish man to be deported after Burnham-On-Sea immigration raid

A Turkish man found working illegally at this kebab shop in Burnham-On-Sea is due to be removed from the UK over the coming days after his arrest by the UK Border Agency on Wednesday night (June 17th).

Acting on intelligence, immigration officers from the Agency went to Kebab Kitchen, 48 High Street, at about 5.15pm - as first reported by Burnham-On-Sea.com here.

Chris Herdman, spokesman for the UK Border Agency, told Burnham-On-Sea.com that after checking the immigration status of those working at the property, a 20-year-old Turkish man was found to have stayed in the UK illegally after his visa had expired.

"He was arrested and taken to Taunton police station. He is due to be transferred to immigration detention and removed from the UK over the coming days," he added.

"Kebab Kitchen was issued with an on-the-spot penalty notice for employing an illegal worker and may now face a fine of up to £10,000."

To avoid the fine, the employers must prove to the UK Border Agency that they carried out the correct right-to-work checks, such as asking for a passport or work permit, before giving the man a job.

Jane Farleigh, Regional Director of the UK Border Agency in Wales and the South West, said in a statement on Thursday: "As long as there are illegal jobs, the UK will be an attractive place for illegal immigrants. That's why we have to put a stop to employers who don't play by the rules.

"We carry out regular operations across Somerset targeting immigration offenders and the businesses which employ them. The message is clear - if you are living or working here illegally, we will catch up with you."

The operation in Burnham comes at a time of massive reform to the UK's immigration system. ID Cards for foreign nationals are being introduced which will help protect against identity fraud and illegal working.

The Government is rolling out an Australian-style points based system for managing migration, ensuring only those with the skills the UK needs are allowed to work.