Woman ‘was working illegally’ at Garvagh takeaway’

The Agency said its officers went to the Lucky Dragon takeaway on Main Street last Tuesday after receiving intelligence.

After checking the immigration status of staff, officers found a 51-year-old Malaysian woman who they said had overstayed her visa and was working illegally. The woman has been detained while steps are taken to remove her from the UK.

The Agency said the Lucky Dragon faces a potential fine of up to £10,000 if the employer is unable to prove that the correct right-to-work checks - such as asking for a passport or work permit - were carried out.

Every year, the UK Border Agency imposes civil penalties on thousands of companies which fail to carry out checks on staff.

Mike Golden, who heads the UK Border Agency’s local immigration team for Northern Ireland, said the operation carried a clear message for employers.

“We will not tolerate illegal working. It is a crime that not only undercuts local business but also has a serious impact on communities, taking jobs from those who are genuinely allowed to work,” he added.