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Germany's Nationwide Customs Raids Uncover Widespread Labour Law Violations

Customs raids uncover illegal workers and labour law breaches. Employers face potential charges and further investigation.

In this image we can see stores, beverage tins, menu boards, clock, spices in the plastic...
In this image we can see stores, beverage tins, menu boards, clock, spices in the plastic containers, condiments, advertisement boards, name boards and sky.

Germany's Nationwide Customs Raids Uncover Widespread Labour Law Violations

Customs officials across Germany conducted inspections at 41 main offices, including the Main Customs Office Loerrach, uncovering numerous labour law violations. The nationwide operation on September 19, 2025, resulted in over 107 interviews and at least 63 cases requiring further investigation.

In Loerrach, a wanted police employee was discovered during a raid, and three workers were found without permission to work in Germany. In Freiburg, multiple checks were needed: eight cases for minimum wage, 22 for social security contributions, and 12 for illegal foreign employment. More than 26 kilograms of shisha tobacco were seized in a local establishment.

Employers may face charges for aiding and abetting illegal residence and employment of foreigners. Four cases lacked proper working hour recording, and four operators failed to notify authorities about new employees immediately. In Kehl and Lahr, several catering establishments employed foreign workers without valid residence permits, including one establishment that illegally employed a minor.

The customs office's fight against black work and illegal employment helps secure social systems and state revenues, ensuring fair working conditions. A total of 55 officials were involved in the inspections at Offenburg, Freiburg, and Loerrach locations.

The nationwide inspections have highlighted significant labour law violations, with employers potentially facing charges for aiding and abetting illegal residence and employment. The customs office's efforts aim to protect social systems, state revenues, and fair working conditions. Further investigations are underway in at least 63 cases.

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