WORC arrests 16 illegal workers: Cayman News Agency

(CNS): This month, law enforcement officers conducted a series of raids on construction and landscaping sites, arresting 16 people for immigration violations: 11 for working beyond their permits, four for working without permits and one man who was found to have overstayed in the Cayman Islands for 10 years.

A news release from Cayman’s Workforce Opportunities and Residency Agency said that following a tip-off regarding illegal hiring activities in the construction and landscaping industries, WORC’s Compliance and Enforcement Division conducted a series of immigration status checks at various locations in West Bay, George Town and Bodden Town from July 9 to 12.

Subsequently, on July 24, the WORC Compliance Team also conducted a joint operation with the RCIPS and Customs and Border Control (CBC) at a construction site on the Linford Pearson Highway in Georgetown. The RCIPS said drone footage captured during the operation showed individuals hiding on the roof of the construction site. These individuals were among those arrested.

During the operation, Immigration Bureau approached the workers and verified their identities against Immigration Bureau records. Those found to be working in violation of the terms and conditions of their work permits were arrested for immigration violations.

WORC said a total of 20 construction sites and 10 landscaping service locations were investigated during all operations in July. About 200 people were interviewed and 16 arrests were made. The inspections also found two people with permanent residency working outside of their approved occupations.

Although the employers of the workers whose sites were raided have not been named or arrested, WORC said investigations into illegal employers are actively progressing and may result in administrative fines being imposed on them.

RCIPS Inspector Ian Yearwood said: “These results demonstrate the joint agency’s commitment to weeding out those who choose to flout our immigration laws and use illegal pathways to remain in the Cayman Islands.”

“We remind businesses and employers of the importance of complying with the Migrant Transition Act and not allowing employees to work without a permit or outside of the terms of their approval,” said WORC Deputy Director Mervin Manderson. “Failure to do so could result in administrative fines, loss of permits or a court appearance. I want to reassure the public that these random operations will continue.”

“On behalf of WORC, I want to express our deepest gratitude to the enforcement officers who recently completed compliance actions,” said WORC Director Jeremy Scott. “Your commitment to performing these duties safely and diligently is commendable. These actions are critical to ensuring all employers comply with the law and maintaining a fair and just workplace for all.”

Anyone who wishes to provide WORC with information about illegal workers can do so anonymously by completing an online form on its website at Complaint Label.

or send email worccomplaints@gov.ky.