👮‍♂️ WORC arrests 16 for immigration offences

The Workforce Opportunities and Residency Cayman (WORC) has announced the arrest of 16 individuals for immigration offences following a series of raids at construction and landscaping sites. The arrests were made for various offences, including working outside the terms of their permits, working without permits, and overstaying in the Cayman Islands. The operations were carried out in West Bay, George Town and Bodden Town between 9 and 12 July, and a joint operation with the RCIPS and Customs & Border Control (CBC) was conducted at a construction site on the Linford Pierson Highway in George Town on 24 July. 🚔

During the operations, approximately 200 people were interviewed, leading to the 16 arrests. The inspections also discovered two people with permanent residency status working outside the approved occupational position. While none of the employers were named or arrested, WORC stated that investigations into the employers of individuals found to be working illegally are ongoing and may result in administrative fines. WORC, RCIPS, and CBC officials have praised the operations and reiterated their commitment to enforcing immigration laws. 🏗️

WORC encourages anyone with information about individuals working illegally to report it anonymously through an online form on their website or by email. The agency has also warned businesses and employers about the importance of compliance with the Immigration Transition Act, noting that non-compliance may result in fines, permit revocation, or court prosecution. 📧