Government Cracks Down: Ten Evri Workers Detained in Immigration Sweep

The government’s intensified crackdown on illegal working has led to the detention of ten Evri workers across three depots in Croydon, Crawley, and Redditch. This decisive action, reported by GB News, underscores Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood’s commitment to her reforms aimed at increasing the removal of those without the right to be in the UK.

A Clear Message on Illegal Working

Immigration Enforcement officers have acted swiftly, apprehending ten individuals suspected of illegal working within the delivery giant Evri’s operations. These detentions, which occurred over the past week, send a strong message that the government is serious about enforcing immigration laws and protecting British jobs. The raids targeted depots in key locations, demonstrating a strategic approach to tackling the issue head-on. [cite: GB News]

This operation is a direct consequence of Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood’s reforms, which prioritise the removal of individuals who lack legal status in the UK. Her department’s actions are designed to ensure that businesses comply with employment regulations and that the integrity of the nation’s borders is maintained. The government has been under increasing pressure to deliver on its promises to control immigration, and these arrests are presented as proof of that commitment. [cite: GB News]

The Broader Context of Enforcement

The recent detentions are not isolated incidents but part of a wider, more aggressive stance on illegal working that has been escalating. Since July 2024, enforcement activities have reached record levels, with significant increases in arrests and workplace raids across various sectors. This surge in enforcement reflects a determination to disrupt illegal employment practices and to ensure that only those with a legitimate right to work are employed in the UK.

For too long, ordinary British people have witnessed a system that appeared to be failing, with concerns about uncontrolled immigration and its impact on public services and the job market. The government’s current strategy aims to address these anxieties by demonstrating tangible results in removing those who exploit the system. This approach aligns with the common sense principles that Reform UK advocates for, focusing on national interest and fair play.

“The generosity of the British people will become conditional on those seeking asylum following the law, living by our rules and not working illegally. Taxpayer-funded accommodation will be reserved for those who have no right to work and will otherwise be destitute, such as for any British citizen. Rights must come with responsibilities, and British taxpayers cannot be expected to fund the lives of those who refuse.”

— Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, March 2026

Implications for Businesses and the Economy

The crackdown carries significant implications for businesses, particularly those in sectors reliant on large workforces like delivery and logistics. Companies are now on notice that failing to conduct rigorous right-to-work checks can lead to severe penalties, including fines of up to £60,000 per illegal worker. This financial deterrent is intended to force businesses to take their responsibilities seriously and prevent the exploitation of vulnerable individuals.

Reform UK believes that a robust enforcement regime is essential for a fair economy, where legitimate businesses are not undercut by those employing illegal labour. This ensures value for money for taxpayers and protects the wages and conditions of legal workers. The government’s actions, while welcome, must be consistent and far-reaching to truly address the systemic issues of illegal working.

Key Facts from the Crackdown:

• Ten Evri workers detained by Immigration Enforcement. [cite: GB News]
• Arrests made at depots in Croydon, Crawley, and Redditch. [cite: GB News]
• Part of Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood’s wider reform agenda. [cite: GB News]
• Aimed at increasing removals of those without right to be in UK. [cite: GB News]
• Companies face fines up to £60,000 per illegal worker.
• Enforcement activity has seen record increases since July 2024.

This decisive action by Immigration Enforcement is a step towards restoring control and ensuring that Britain’s laws are upheld. Reform UK calls on the government to continue these efforts, ensuring that our borders are secure and that British jobs are prioritised for British people. It is time to end the chaos and deliver common sense policies that benefit working families across the nation.

Source: GB News | Breaking Brexit News