The government will unveil a new crackdown on fake immigration lawyers aimed at seizing their illicit earnings, as per the latest announcement by ministers. Funds confiscated from fraudulent individuals posing as legal experts will be redirected towards bolstering border security in the UK, according to official plans reviewed by The Mirror. Amendments to the Proceeds of Crime Act will enhance the authorities’ ability to reclaim millions from counterfeit legal practitioners.
This initiative by the Home Office is designed to reinvest recovered money into combating the human trafficking networks that were previously sustained by these illicit activities. Notable cases include an imposter who amassed over £500,000 and a trio who defrauded victims online, accumulating more than £3 million. These criminals charged exorbitant fees for services related to visa applications and deportation appeals. Security Minister Dan Jarvis emphasized that rogue immigration advisers exploiting the system will face consequences.
By empowering the Immigration Advice Authority with robust enforcement mechanisms, the government aims to deprive criminals of their ill-gotten gains and fortify border controls to ensure public safety. The proposed measures, set to be implemented after a consultation period extending to year-end, will grant the Immigration Advice Authority expanded capabilities to recover funds independently, including asset tracing, asset freezing, fund retrieval, and prosecution of offenders without relying on police assistance.
Additionally, the Border Security, Asylum, and Immigration Bill will introduce further penalties, with imposters posing as immigration lawyers facing fines of up to £15,000.
