Eastern European residents in Arun targeted by ‘bogus’ job site

The Operation Accent team, which was set up by the force a year ago to reduce crime and vulnerability within the eastern European community across the district, has recorded an increase in reports of individuals who have been lured by the adverts.

Placed on both English and Polish websites, the adverts provide details of a local business and include a job description, contact and phone number.

The information has been taken from the website of legitimate companies, who are unaware that the adverts have been placed.

The site states that if individuals pay money – in the region of £120 per person – they are guaranteed a job at minimum wage and local accommodation.

Police say that large numbers of individuals are staying in houses in the Arun area and are under pressure from the individual promising them work.

Sgt Rachel Glenton, who leads the Operation Accent communities team, said: “The majority of eastern Europeans who come to Arun district are hardworking people who want to make a better life for themselves and their families, so they’re lured by the prospect of a job and somewhere to live.

“I would ask people to ignore these adverts as they are not legitimate. The companies mentioned have no idea the adverts are being placed and do not advertise in this way for employees. Do not hand any money over – you do not have to pay for employment in the UK.”

She added: “There are housing providers locally and these include properties of multiple occupancy. Housing conditions should not be cramped and there should not be multiple individuals per room. The Operation Accent team is working in partnership with the Gangmasters Licensing Authority to tackle this issue.”

To contact the team, email [email protected], Facebook “Operacja Akcent” or via Twitter @sergeantglenton.

Arun District Council’s community safety team has been working closely with police and echoes the force’s warning for residents to be vigilant of the bogus sites.

Of the 3,431 residents with eastern European passports living in Arun, 2,102 are believed to be Polish.