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Customs Officers Uncover Wage Theft and Illegal Employment in Hotel Industry

Over 2,200 cases of potential violations found. Minister Klingbeil stresses the need for continued enforcement.

This picture is clicked inside the hotel and in front, we see a table on which white color cloth is...
This picture is clicked inside the hotel and in front, we see a table on which white color cloth is placed. On table, we see plates, fork, spoon, glass, branches of tree. Around the table, we see chairs and behind that we see the other table which is like green in color and behind that, we see a man wearing black blazer. Next to him, we see the girl standing and behind them, we see door on which exit is written on it and behind that door, we see two men standing.

Customs Officers Uncover Wage Theft and Illegal Employment in Hotel Industry

Over 2,600 customs officers, led by Dr. Armin Rolfink, conducted inspections across the hotel and catering industry on Friday, September 19, 2025. The operation focused on enforcing minimum wages, social security contributions, and preventing illegal employment of foreigners and improper receipt of social security benefits.

The extensive inspection involved surveying over 5,200 employees and examining more than 430 business records. Initial findings revealed potential violations in nearly 2,200 cases. This included over 400 instances of withheld social security contributions, around 450 cases of illegally employing foreigners, and nearly 600 cases of not enforcing minimum wages.

As a result of these inspections, customs officers initiated around 370 criminal proceedings and nearly 800 administrative offense proceedings on-site. Additionally, almost 200 cases of illegal residence were identified.

Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil emphasized the importance of such inspections in maintaining the rule of law and protecting society from exploitation and financial damage caused by illegal employment. The findings highlight the need for continued vigilance and enforcement in the hotel and catering industry.

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