Leader of brothel living illegally in the UK for up to 23 years

A case involving an illegal immigrant who ran a brothel in the UK is raising fears and drawing controversy regarding immigration policies in the UK.  During his trial it was uncovered that Rajakumar Ravi, the leader of the brothel, may have been hiding out in the UK illegally for nearly 23 years.  The judge ruling over his case wanted to know how he went undetected for that considerable amount of time and encouraged immigration officials to investigate the matter.

Judge Michael Murphy said of the incident: "So when they say he is an overstayer, that is putting it mildly?  I would accept that he was beneath the radar if there was any proof that there was any radar switched on.  I will be inviting the immigration authorities to take a serious look at this situation."

In response the UK Border Agency said that "We do not comment on individual cases.   Public protection is our number one priority and we are determined there will be no hiding place for these people who come here and break our rules."

Hugh Bayley who is a York MP added that he believed "anybody who is here illegally should be deported.   If people are able to circumvent immigration laws by overstaying, it is completely unfair to those who apply for a work permit or to live in this country on a long-term basis.   I find it very surprising that this man was able to stay here so long, and there needs to be consistency between the courts and the UK Border Agency to ensure the law is upheld."

www.homeoffice.gov.uk