Illegal Immigration

With its steady economic growth and proximity to the Mainland, the
HKSAR remains vulnerable to the entry of illegal immigrants from the
Mainland. The daily average arrest figure for 1997 was 49, a 22.2
per cent drop compared with 63 in 1996.

Most illegal immigrants came to the HKSAR seeking work and higher
wages. Frequent checks were conducted on construction sites, factories
and other places of employment. Illegal immigrants found working were
prosecuted before repatriation. Their employers were also prosecuted.
Most of them were fined, but prison sentences were imposed in serious
cases.

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