Uncovering of 11 Undocumented Immigrants in a Cleaning Industry Raid Conducted by HZA-KI

The Main Customs Office Kiel has been actively working to reduce black work and illegal employment, contributing significantly to the security of social systems and state revenues. In a recent focus inspection, the cleaning staff employed by a hotel in Rendsburg-Eckernförde was under scrutiny.

The inspections, known as Financial Control Black Work (FKS), are risk-oriented and can include both random inspections and full inspections of all employees of an employer. In this case, eight customs officers were deployed to check if the employees were properly registered for social security, if social benefits were fraudulently obtained, if third-country nationals had the necessary work permits or residence titles, and if the minimum wages were paid.

Sadly, the findings were alarming. Eleven of the fifteen employees encountered did not have a valid residence title or work permit. Moreover, the statements indicate severe wage exploitation, with conditions far below collective bargaining or legal standards. Since January 1, 2025, the general statutory minimum wage has been €12.82 gross per hour. Every employee has a claim to this, and in the building cleaning sector, there are special branch minimum wages - at least €14.25 since January 1, 2025. However, it appears that many of these employees were significantly underpaid.

The further investigations into the case are ongoing. Ten persons subject to deportation have left the federal territory. The hotel itself was apparently unaware of the underpayments because it used a subcontractor.

These focus inspections are an important instrument for reducing the social acceptance of black work and illegal employment. They help ensure fair working and competitive conditions, contributing to a more equitable society.

For more information, please visit the Main Customs Office Kiel's website (www.zoll.de) or contact Vanessa Marzinek at the Main Customs Office Kiel via email ([email protected]) or phone (0431 20083-1107 or 0151 52550103). The statements of the employees taken on-site are usually just the starting point for more in-depth business document checks, and the customs office is in close information exchange with other authorities and the pension insurance during these checks.

These efforts by the Main Customs Office Kiel underscore its commitment to protecting workers' rights and ensuring fair employment practices. By reducing black work and illegal employment, the office is helping to secure social systems and state revenues, and fostering a more equitable society for all.