ENG-2008 — Page 393

Public Order | 321

such as denying them entry. In 2008, a total of 42 219 such people were refused permission to enter Hong Kong.

Detection of Forged Travel Documents

Strict measures are taken to guard against the use of forged travel documents. The department detected 1 423 forged travel documents during the year, compared with 1 598 in 2007. Frequent contact with local, Mainland and overseas law enforcement agencies and consulates was maintained to exchange information and intelligence on such documents. Special operations were carried out by the department against forgery syndicates.

Interception of Target or Wanted Persons

In 2008, a total of 333 929 target or wanted persons were intercepted at immigration control points and other offices. They were suspected of being connected with offences or court orders ranging from failure to settle outstanding fines on time to serious crimes.

Illegal Immigration and Unlawful Employment

During 2008, some 2 460 Mainland illegal immigrants were apprehended and sent back, compared with 3 175 in 2007.

The Immigration Department set up an Anti-Illegal Workers Combat Squad in January 2005 as a nimble and robust force to combat illegal employment. Its main duties involve conducting undercover patrols at illegal worker black spots.

In 2008, some 6 141 illegal workers were arrested in 10 227 raids, compared with 6 399 arrested in 9 606 raids in 2007. The vast majority of illegal workers were visitors who had breached their conditions of stay.

Illegal workers were either fined or jailed before being sent back to their places of origin. Their employers were also prosecuted. In 2008, a total of 374 charges were laid against employers of illegal workers.

Deportation and Removal

The Immigration Department processes deportation and removal orders. During the year, some 7 363 people convicted of offences punishable with imprisonment for not less than two years were considered for deportation and 392 such persons were deported. Another 253 were removed from the HKSAR. They comprised 18 illegal immigrants and 235 people who had breached their conditions of stay.

Investigation and Prosecution of Immigration Offenders

During 2008, a total of 11 225 charges were laid against people who had committed various immigration offences. These included illegally remaining in Hong Kong, breach of conditions of stay, making false statements or representations, and using or possessing forged travel documents.