Two illegal workers discovered at a Dartford restaurant have been arrested after a raid by the UK Border Agency.

Acting on a tip-off, officers from the agency paid a surprise visit to Russells Takeaway in Hythe Street.

They found a woman from Taiwan and a Chinese man working illegally.

The woman was arrested and detained before being deported on Thursday, March 3.

The man has been released on immigration bail and must report regularly to the agency pending an outstanding immigration application.

Russells Takeaway now faces a potential fine of up to £20,000 if the employers cannot prove that the correct right-to-work checks – such as asking for a passport or work permit – were carried out.

Karyn Dunning, who heads the UK Border Agency’s local immigration team for Kent said: "The message is clear for employers — we will not tolerate illegal working.

"It is a crime that not only undercuts local business but also has a serious impact on communities, taking jobs from those who are genuinely allowed to work."

Employers unsure of the steps they need to take to avoid employing illegal workers can visitwww.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/advice-for-employers or call the UK Border Agency’s Employers Helpline on 0300 123 4699.

Anyone who suspects that illegal workers are being employed at a business in Kent can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.