Illegal Workers Discovered During Joint Operation
West Midlands Police and Home Office immigration officers conducted a joint operation on Wednesday, June 10, visiting several properties in Birmingham city centre. At Vietnam City Restaurant in Wrottesley Street, Chinatown, they discovered two illegal workers: one in the kitchen and another in a downstairs area. One worker attempted to leave the scene, while the other was found hiding in a staff-only area.
Manager's Unusual Explanations
The restaurant manager offered several explanations for the presence of the illegal workers. He first claimed he 'allowed people to cook their own food in his kitchen', then said he 'feeds the homeless'. Finally, he stated: 'I can't help it if people come in off the street to use the staff toilet downstairs.' The premises licence holder is Ocean 1688 Limited.
Workers Deny Employment
Both illegal workers were arrested and bailed by immigration officers. During interviews, they denied working at the restaurant. Immigration officials served a civil penalty on the premises for employing two illegal workers.
Police Concerns and Licence Review
Superintendent Karl Thomas said: 'West Midlands Police have serious concerns with the operation of this premises and the promotion of the licensing objectives, especially the prevention of crime and disorder.' Police have applied for a review of the premises licence, which will be considered by Birmingham City Council's licensing committee. The review period runs from July 8 to August 4.
