Hong Kong’s Immigration Department (ImmD) has arrested 15 people—including 12 suspected illegal workers, one employer, an aider-and-abettor and an overstayer—after a series of territory-wide raids conducted between October 9 and 15. The multi-agency operations, codenamed “Twilight,” “Rainbow,” “Champion” and “Flabbergast,” targeted restaurants, retail outlets and industrial premises across the city. Those arrested range in age from 20 to 54. One of the male suspects had been issued a recognisance form—meaning he was already prohibited from taking any employment—while the arrested employer is a 47-year-old woman. Investigators say further arrests are possible as they examine recruitment records and payment trails. ImmD reminded employers that penalties for hiring unauthorised workers were stiffened in 2025: companies now face fines up to HK$500,000 and jail terms of up to 10 years, and directors may bear personal liability. Courts have also mandated immediate custodial sentences for employers caught flouting the law. The department underscored its trafficking-in-persons screening protocol, noting that any arrested individuals showing TIP or forced-labour indicators are given medical care, shelter and counselling. Members of the public can report suspected illegal employment via a 24-hour hotline, email or an online form. For companies that rely on casual labour—including restaurants ramping up for the forthcoming holiday weekend—the enforcement action is a timely alert to double-check right-to-work documents and maintain proper payroll records.
