The step up in activity is part of the government's attempts to stop asylum seekers crossing the Channel in small boats.

Thousands of migrants working illegally in the UK have been arrested since Labour came to power, new figures have revealed.

The raids are part of the government’s attempts to stop asylum seekers crossing the Channel in small boats.

According to the Home Office, 3,930 arrests were made by immigration enforcement officers between July 5 and January 31 - a 38% increase compared to the previous 12-month period when the Tories were still in power.

In January alone, a record 609 people were arrested working in nail bars, convenience stores, restaurants and car washes, which was a 48% rise compared to the same month last year.

Home secretary Yvette Cooper said:  “The immigration rules must be respected and enforced. For far too long, employers have been able to take on and exploit illegal migrants and too many people have been able to arrive and work........

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