A new crackdown will target fake immigration lawyers to reclaim their ill-gotten gains, as announced by government officials today.
Plans obtained by The Mirror show that money confiscated from fraudulent individuals pretending to be legal professionals will be allocated to enhance border security in the UK. The enhancement of the Proceeds of Crime Act aims to recover millions from counterfeit legal advisors.
The Home Office indicates that this initiative will redirect funds to combat trafficking networks that were previously funded by these criminals. Several cases, such as a single deceitful advisor amassing over £500,000 and a trio pocketing more than £3 million through online victim targeting, have spurred this action.
These offenders charged exorbitant fees for visa guidance and assistance with deportation appeals. Security Minister Dan Jarvis remarked, “Exploitative rogue immigration advisors will face consequences.
“By empowering the Immigration Advice Authority with robust new capabilities, we are depriving criminals of their illicit gains and using them to fortify our borders for public safety.”
The Home Office’s proposals, anticipated post-consultation at year-end, will grant the Immigration Advice Authority expanded authority to recover assets.
The Immigration Advice Authority will gain the ability to track, freeze, and reclaim assets, as well as prosecute offenders independently of law enforcement support.
These measures supplement recent provisions in the Border Security, Asylum, and Immigration Bill, which propose fines up to £15,000 for individuals impersonating immigration lawyers.
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