Mohamed Hamza, the owner of a Lincolnshire hand car wash, has been banned as a company director for five years following the discovery of illegal workers at his business.
Director Banned for Immigration Breach
The ban was imposed after Immigration Enforcement officials found two workers from Syria and Egypt, who had no right to work in the UK, at M&H Car Wash on Enterprise Way in Pinchbeck during a visit in January 2022.
Details of the Breach
Hamza, 34, of Granville Road, Peterborough, had employed the illegal workers in contravention of the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006.
This serious breach of legislation led to a disqualification undertaking accepted by the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, resulting in a five-year ban that began on Monday, 13 January 2025.
Hamza, who was the sole director of M&H Car Wash Ltd since its establishment in February 2019, is now prohibited from being involved in the promotion, formation, or management of any company in the UK without court permission.
Economic and Social Implications
The case highlights the broader issue of illegal working and its impact on public finances and vulnerable individuals. Employers who hire illegal workers not only defraud the public purse but also put vulnerable people at risk of exploitation.
The car wash, M&H Car Wash Ltd, was fined £20,000 for the immigration breach, which remained unpaid when the company entered liquidation in August 2022 with liabilities exceeding £44,000.
Statistics
- A £20,000 fine for immigration breaches
- Liabilities of over £44,000 upon company liquidation
- A five-year directorship ban starting January 2025
Official Response
Anyone who thinks they can profit from illegal working in the UK can think again. This case demonstrates there is no hiding place from law enforcement and I am pleased to see justice has been served.
Dame Angela Eagle MP, Minister for Border Security and Asylum
The Minister’s statement underscores the government’s commitment to enforcing immigration laws and protecting vulnerable workers. The case serves as a deterrent to other employers who might consider hiring illegal workers.
Progress and Targets
- Ongoing enforcement work to tackle smuggling gangs
- Increased collaboration between the Home Office and the Insolvency Service
- Enhanced penalties for non-compliant employers
Effects Locally
The ban and the associated fines have significant implications for the local community in Pinchbeck. The closure of M&H Car Wash Ltd due to unpaid fines and liabilities affects local employment and economic stability.
However, a car wash under a different company name continues to operate from the same address, with Mohamed Hamza not listed as a director.
Immediate Implications
The immediate effect of the ban is that Hamza cannot participate in any company activities without court permission until January 2030. This measure ensures that those who breach immigration laws face severe consequences.
Broader Significance
This case reinforces the government’s stance on creating a ‘hostile environment’ for illegal migrants, making it harder for them to live and work in the UK.
It also emphasizes the importance of thorough checks by employers to ensure all workers have the right to work in the UK, protecting both the workers and the integrity of the immigration system.
