AN illegal Brazilian immigrant has been deported by the UK Border Agency after a surprise raid at a South Woodford restaurant.

Employers at Prezzo, in South Woodford High Road, were given a Notice of Potential Liability after the swoop on Monday, March 23, meaning they could be liable to pay a fine if found to have knowingly employed the individual illegally.

The UK Border Agency said that illegal working can lead to major abuses of health, the exploitation of vulnerable workers and safety in the workplace.

London and South East Regional Director Tony Smith said: “This is just one of many operations carried out across London every week.

“As long as there are illegal jobs, the UK will be an attractive place for illegal immigrants.”

Civil penalties for businesses who fail to carry out the proper checks were introduced in February 2008, allowing fines for up to ₤10,000 per illegal employee.

The UK Border Agency has recently started naming on its website employers who have been fined under the new rules.

A points-based system for managing immigration has been introduced to make sure only those with the skills required by the UK are allowed to work here.

Also, fingerprint visas are being rolled out across the globe to prevent people coming to the UK on a false identity.

Prezzo declined to comment.

Information for employers can be found on www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/employers or 0845 0106677.

Anyone who suspects of illegal workers being employed can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.