A BBC investigation has revealed a significant figure in an organized crime network, who was caught on camera offering to erase fines for employing illegal workers. The criminal network, exposed by undercover BBC reporters, includes a self-styled 'accountant' named Shaxawan, a member of a group of Kurdish men facilitating illegal work for migrants in the UK.
The scheme involves registering businesses in the names of others, while the actual operations employ undocumented migrants as workers. The BBC has reported that Shaxawan discussed setting up businesses for migrants, including asylum seekers, to avoid detection by immigration enforcement.
Operating from a solicitor's office in Huddersfield, Shaxawan claimed to have extensive connections across the country. Under the name Kardos Mateen, he has appeared as a director of 18 businesses in northern England, according to Companies House records.
Despite his initial claims, when confronted, Shaxawan denied any illegal activity. However, investigations by Trading Standards revealed illegal cigarettes being sold in multiple businesses registered under his name, with the BBC purchasing counterfeit tobacco from some of them.
This two-part BBC News investigation highlights the complexity and reach of the criminal networks profiting from undocumented workers on UK's High Streets. The government has acknowledged that lax labor market regulations contribute to the problem, attracting individuals entering the UK illegally.
The methods used by these networks include:
- Setting up companies with fraudulent registration and providing business tools like bank cards and card machines.
- Utilizing 'ghost directors' who bear the risk of law enforcement actions while illegal workers operate the businesses.
- Employing individuals to take responsibility for large fines, essentially acting as scapegoats ('ghost names').
- Assistance from an 'English woman' within the network, who allegedly helps in reducing fines and managing other logistical issues like utilities and bailiff actions.
The investigation involved a lengthy process to establish contact with Shaxawan. He was eventually met in a Manchester retail park, where he believed he was meeting an asylum seeker interested in running a mini-mart selling illegal cigarettes. In reality, he was speaking to Saman, a Kurdish journalist working undercover for the BBC. During the meeting, Shaxawan outlined the services his network could provide, promising to eliminate any issues for the aspiring illegal business operator.
Shaxawan's offer included registering a business under a 'ghost director' for £400 per month and a one-time fee of £140 to secure a business bank card. The ghost director would assume the risk of law enforcement intervention.