A woman in her forties has been taken into custody on allegations of instructing asylum seekers to provide false information to stay in the UK. The Home Office minister, Mike Tapp, released a video showing immigration enforcement officers searching a residence in London as part of an investigation into suspected untrustworthy immigration advisors.

Sharing the video, Minister Tapp firmly stated, “We are not tolerating this.” He disclosed that the accused woman was supposedly advising asylum seekers to falsely claim to be homosexual to prolong their stay in the country. According to him, advisors promoting such tactics are manipulating and weakening the immigration system. Mr. Tapp emphasized that this behavior undermines public trust and may grant asylum to individuals who do not genuinely qualify.

The woman was arrested on suspicion of offering illegal immigration services, while a man in his early twenties was also apprehended on fraud suspicions related to the case. Minister Tapp issued a warning, stating, “If lawyers or so-called legal advisors are providing dubious advice, we will take action against them. As demonstrated today, we will make arrests where necessary.”

Highlighting the purpose of the asylum system to protect individuals fleeing persecution and conflicts, Minister Tapp asserted that those attempting to exploit it will face consequences. Footage shows officers entering a London property, accompanied by Mr. Tapp, during the operation.

An earlier BBC investigation uncovered a network of law firms and advisors assisting migrants in fabricating false narratives, including pretending to be gay. This involved obtaining fabricated supporting documents such as letters, photos, and medical records. The Home Office responded by affirming that individuals attempting to manipulate the system will be prosecuted, including deportation.

The BBC report revealed that some lawyers charged up to £7,000 to assist with deceptive asylum claims. The investigation also exposed instances where lawyers admitted to aiding clients in falsely claiming to be gay or atheists to secure asylum.