Home Office Worker Arrested For Selling UK Residency

A Home Office case worker has been arrested on suspicion of trying to sell UK residency to an asylum seeker living in Northern Ireland.

BBC News NI can reveal the official allegedly contacted a vulnerable man and asked for £2,000 in return for approving his refugee application.

It is understood sensitive Home Office records were used as part of the attempted scam.

The Home Office said the member of staff has been suspended.

It said it expected “the highest standards” from its staff, but it would be “inappropriate” to comment further due to the live police investigation.

Labour’s Shadow Immigration Minister Stephen Kinnock said they were “deeply concerning allegations” and the Conservative government had “lost control” of the asylum system.

BBC News NI has spoken to the intended victim, who we are calling Renas to protect his identity.

He said he was contacted by a worker employed as an asylum “decision maker” in the north of England.

Renas said he received a call in early March 2024 where it was claimed “95% of people like you” have their applications refused.

The decision maker then allegedly suggested a direct payment would guarantee success.

“He said I could be sure he would refuse my application,” Renas said.

“But if I could help him, he could help me and he asked for some money. He asked for £2,000.