A paralegal in Huddersfield has been dismissed after being secretly filmed telling an undercover BBC reporter that he could help businesses avoid fines for employing illegal workers. The reporter posed as a mini mart owner who was facing a major penalty for hiring workers without proper documentation. During the meeting, Zohaib Hussain explained that he could create documents that appeared legitimate, which included business agreements, in return for a fee of three thousand five hundred pounds. He also questioned the reporter about the number of illegal workers involved and joked about the type of goods sold in the shop. His firm, RKS Solicitors, confirmed his permanent dismissal shortly after the footage was made public and stated that a police report had been filed. Hussain has previously denied all allegations made against him.
The wider BBC investigation revealed a criminal network helping migrants work illegally across Britain. The inquiry uncovered claims from a man known as Shaxawan, who attended the meeting with Hussain. The BBC linked him to a group involved in arranging illegal work opportunities and assisting migrants and asylum seekers in setting up businesses that could mislead immigration authorities. Company records list him as Kardos Mateen, a resident in his thirties connected to multiple mini mart businesses across northern England. He denied all allegations and said he had no link to the law firm. Hussain also issued a statement insisting he had no association with this individual and no involvement in any unlawful activity.
RKS Solicitors stated that Hussain worked only under supervision and was not authorised to offer immigration or tax advice. The firm reaffirmed its commitment to professional conduct and reported the matter to the Solicitors Regulation Authority. The Home Office announced an urgent investigation, with support from the National Crime Agency and several police forces. West Yorkshire Police confirmed that it is working with the Home Office, which is leading the inquiry.
