Raid on Weston restaurant nets illegal immigrants

Officials from the UK Border Agency found two illegal immigrants after raiding an Indian restaurant in Weston-super-Mare.

The team visited Pappadoms in Milton Road, at about 7pm, on Friday, August 14.

Two Bangladeshi men, aged 28 and 50, were found to be working illegally at the premises and were arrested and taken to Weston police station.

The 50-year-old had entered the UK illegally and the 28-year-old had stayed in the UK after his visa expired.

Takeaway owner Sayd Ahmed said: "One of the men was helping me out for that day and I didn't know he wasn't legally allowed to work here.

"I had seen the other one's passport and I didn't realise his visa had run out.

"I am currently trying to find people to work for me, so that we can reopen."

Mr Ahmed said he hoped to have the takeaway open again by this weekend.

The raid was part of a joint operation with the Department for Work and Pensions, police and North Somerset Council.

Wales and South West regional director for the UK Border Agency Jane Farleigh said: "As this successful operation shows, my officers frequently work closely with police, local authorities and other agencies to deliver the best results.

"The message is simple, 'if someone is living or working here illegally, they will get caught."

The illegal workers have been released on immigration bail and must report regularly to the police station while emergency travel documents are secured for their removal from the UK.

Anyone who has information on immigration offenders can contact the UK Border Agency on 01275 841500.