UK Launches Major Crackdown on Illegal Delivery Riders, Arresting 280 in One Week

In a sweeping operation targeting illegal migrant workers, British authorities arrested 280 individuals in a week-long crackdown on unauthorized delivery riders. The operation, which took place between July 20 and 27, saw immigration enforcement officers stop and question 1,780 people, with 280 of them ultimately arrested. This effort is part of the government’s broader strategy to combat illegal migration, which has become a major political issue in the UK.

A Growing Political Concern

Prime Minister Keir Starmer is under increasing pressure to demonstrate his ability to control illegal immigration, particularly as support for Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party continues to rise. The government has been pushing for stricter enforcement of immigration laws, including new legal requirements for companies to verify the immigration status of their workers. Border Security Minister Angela Eagle emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring that “rules are respected and enforced.”

Businesses and Assets Seized

During the crackdown, 51 businesses—including car washes and restaurants—were issued civil penalty notices for employing illegal workers. These notices could lead to significant fines. In addition, 71 vehicles, including 58 e-bikes, were seized, and £8,000 in cash and £460,000 worth of illicit cigarettes were confiscated.

New Deals and Funding Boosts

The government has also entered into a new agreement with major food delivery firms such as Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat to share information aimed at preventing illegal working. Meanwhile, the interior ministry announced a £5 million funding boost for immigration enforcement teams, underscoring the government’s commitment to tackling illegal labor.

Return of Migrants and International Agreements

Over the past 12 months, the UK has returned 35,052 people who had no right to remain in the country, marking a 13 percent increase compared to the previous year. France has recently agreed to accept some undocumented migrants arriving in the UK by small boats, in exchange for the UK accepting an equal number of legitimate asylum seekers with family ties in the country.

A Complex and Evolving Issue

The crackdown highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the UK in balancing immigration enforcement with humanitarian concerns. While the government emphasizes its commitment to enforcing the law, critics argue that such measures may not address the root causes of migration or the broader social and economic implications of these policies.