Illegal workers have been arrested in Great Yarmouth and Hemsby following raids by the UK Border Agency.

Officers swooped on the China Inn, Northgate Street, Great Yarmouth, and caught a Chinese man working in the kitchen who was a failed asylum seeker.

Meanwhile, two illegal workers - both Chinese men -were caught at the Hong Kong Takeaway, Kingsway, Hemsby. where one illegal worker was preparing food in the kitchen while another man was found hiding behind a door in accommodation upstairs.

All three men were arrested and detained during raids on September 8 while the UK Border Agency takes action to remove them from the country.

Both businesses were issued with on-the-spot penalty notices for employing illegal workers and may now face fines of up to �10,000 per illegal worker.

To avoid a heavy fine, the businesses must prove to the UK Border Agency that they carried out the correct pre-employment checks on their staff.

Kieran Bower, UK Border Agency Norfolk local immigration team, said: 'Businesses that exploit illegal workers face severe financial penalties and potential prosecution.

'We are happy to help businesses carry out the correct pre-employment checks. But those intent on breaking the law should expect an enforcement visit from the UK Border Agency.'

Anyone who suspects that illegal workers are being employed at a business in Norfolk should contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org where anonymity can be assured.