Smethwick man first charged under new illegal immigration advertising offence
The investigation followed the discovery of social media posts which allegedly offered advice on making fraudulent visa and asylum applications
A Smethwick man has become the first person to be charged with a new offence of advertising illegal immigration services as part of a National Crime Agency investigation.
Hem Raj, a 24-year-old Indian national, was arrested at an address in Smethwick on Tuesday, September 15, during an investigation involving the NCA and West Midlands Police.
Officers also seized mobile phones during the arrest.
The investigation followed the discovery of social media posts which allegedly offered advice on making fraudulent visa and asylum applications.
Raj has now been charged with advertising illegal immigration services, contrary to Section 17 of the Border, Asylum and Immigration Act 2025.
According to the NCA, it is the first time someone has been charged with the new offence as part of one of its investigations.
Raj has also been charged with illegally providing immigration advice in contravention of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999.
He is due to appear before Birmingham Magistrates' Court today, Wednesday, September 16.
NCA Branch Commander Kevin Broadhead said: “Tackling organised immigration crime remains a top priority for the National Crime Agency, and we are doing all we can to disrupt and dismantle those involved.
“This includes targeting those who facilitate offending using online platforms.”