TWO people have been arrested following immigration raids at two takeaways in East Lancashire.

Home Office immigration enforcement officers visited Dixy Fried Chicken, in Manchester Road, Nelson, and Premier Curries, in Colne Road, Burnley, on Sunday night.

A 22-year-old man from Pakistan who had overstayed his visa was arrested at Dixy Fried Chicken, and a 73-year-old man from Bangladesh was arrested at Premier Curries for the same reason.

They have both been placed on immigration bail whilst steps are taken to remove them from the UK.

Dixy Fried Chicken and Premier Curries were both served with a civil penalty notice for employing the illegal workers. This means the employers are liable for a potential fine of £10,000 unless evidence is provided that the correct right to work checks were carried out such as seeing a passport or Home Office document.

Karen McDonough, Home Office immigration enforcement lead for Lancashire, said: “Illegal working has a negative impact on communities.

“It defrauds the taxpayer, undercuts honest employers and cheats legitimate job seekers out of employment opportunities.

“We are happy to work with businesses to let them know what checks need to be made on staff, but those who break the law should know that they will face financial penalties.

“I would urge members of the public with information about suspected immigration abuse to get in touch.”