Forty-one illegal workers and 19 employers have been arrested in joint Labour Department and Police operations.

From August 13 to 18, officers raided 229 working places in various districts, including decoration work sites, wastepaper processing workshops, retail stalls and eateries.

Those arrested included one foreign domestic helper and 40 Two-Way Permit holders. They were found performing decoration work, selling goods, cooking noodles, washing dishes and serving customers.

Under the Immigration Ordinance visitors are not allowed to work, paid or unpaid, without prior permission from the Director of Immigration. Offenders face a $50,000 fine and two years' prison.

Aiders and abettors are also liable to prosecution and penalty. It is an offence to employ people who are not lawfully employable. The maximum penalty is a $350,000 fine and three years' prison.