Germany's Customs Crackdown Reveals Widespread Labour Law Violations
Customs officials across Germany have uncovered numerous cases of suspected labour law violations during recent inspections. The crackdown, led by the Main Customs Office Loerrach, focused on the Freiburg and Loerrach areas, as well as Offenburg.
In the Freiburg area, authorities found eight cases where employers may not have paid the minimum wage. Additionally, 22 cases required intense scrutiny of social security contributions, and 12 involved suspected illegal employment of foreigners. In Loerrach, one wanted employee was found, and three cases involved workers employed without German work permits. Across these locations, 63 cases need further investigation.
On 19.09.2025, nationwide inspections targeted hotels and catering establishments. In Loerrach, four operators failed to notify authorities about new employees promptly, and four did not record working hours. In Offenburg, several catering establishments employed foreigners without appropriate residence permits. An Iraqi and a Turkish employee were wanted for location determination and arrest respectively, and a minor was illegally employed.
These inspections aim to secure social systems and state revenues, ensuring fair working conditions and competitive business environments. Employers found guilty of aiding and abetting illegal residence and employment of foreigners will face consequences. The search for the police-wanted employee in Loerrach continues, and over 26 kilograms of shisha tobacco were seized in a Freiburg establishment.
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