Illegal working arrests reach record levels in Labour's first 18 months

The Home Office reports 12,322 arrests for illegal working between July 2024 and December 2025, an 83% increase on the previous 18 months; 1,725 of those arrested have been deported so far.

The Home Office announced a surge in enforcement activity between July 2024 and December 2025. It reported 12,322 arrests for illegal working in that period, an 83% rise on the previous 18 months. The department said 1,725 of those arrested have been deported so far. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood described the activity as the highest level in British history. Key figures: - 12,322 arrests for illegal working reported from July 2024 to December 2025. - An 83% increase in arrests compared with the previous 18 months. - 1,725 people arrested in that period have been deported so far. Summary: The reported rise reflects increased enforcement activity and a larger number of arrests compared with the prior 18 months. Deportations to date remain a minority of those detained. Undetermined at this time.