Hundreds of arrests have been made across the United Kingdom following a week-long operation targeting asylum seekers suspected of working illegally for delivery companies. Immigration enforcement teams stopped and questioned nearly 1,800 individuals, resulting in 280 arrests in areas such as northwest London, Dumfries, and Birmingham. Of those arrested, 89 have been detained pending removal, while 53 face a review of their asylum support, which could be suspended or withdrawn. The operation focused on illegal working hotspots in the gig economy, particularly among food delivery riders, and included increased funding for enforcement and stricter identity checks by major delivery platforms.

Officials say the crackdown aims to address factors attracting migrants to the country, with businesses found hiring people without the right to work facing potential fines. The government has also announced plans to share information about asylum hotel locations with delivery firms to disrupt illegal working hotspots. Political debate continues over the handling of asylum seekers, with calls for tougher enforcement and criticism of current policies.