Dubai, July 13: Five busloads of Filipinas heading to work in various shopping malls and centres across Dubai, have been arrested and detained by Dubai Police for working without proper permits.
Acting on an apparent tip-off, the police stopped the group of 120 who were heading for work on different buses on various locations and took them to Al Awir Central Jail in Dubai, according to media reports today.
The women who are either illegal, absconding, or on their husband’s visa, will be investigated and penalised according to the law, said the Philippines Consul General, Benito Valeriano, confirming the arrest and adding that Filipinos working illegally has been big headache of the consulate.
“Many people, in spite of warnings and knowledge that it is illegal (to work without labour permits) take the risk. Maybe for them it’s worth it,” he said.
“It’s very simple. If you don’t have an employment visa then don’t work.”
UAE labour law states people on visit visas are not allowed to work, and those with employment visas can only work for their sponsor.
Individuals who break the law face up to three months in prison, a fine of up to Dh1,000 and deportation.
And firms or sponsors who knowingly hire illegal workers or help them find work face even bigger penalties – up to Dh10,000 in fines or a jail term of the judge’s discretion.