Home Office worker arrested for ‘selling’ UK residency

A Home Office case worker has been arrested on suspicion of trying to sell UK residency to an asylum seeker living in Northern Ireland.

The official allegedly contacted a vulnerable man and asked for £2,000 in return for approving his refugee application.

It is understood sensitive Home Office records were used as part of the attempted scam.

The Home Office said the member of staff has been suspended.

It said it expected "the highest standards" from its staff, but it would be "inappropriate" to comment further due to the live police investigation.

BBC News has spoken to the intended victim, who is called Renas to protect his identity.

He said he was contacted by a worker employed as an asylum "decision maker" in the north of England.

Renas said he received a call in early March 2024 where it was claimed "95% of people like you" have their applications refused.

The decision maker then allegedly suggested a direct payment would guarantee success.

"He said I could be sure he would refuse my application," Renas said.

"But if I could help him, he could help me and he asked for some money. He asked for £2,000.”

"He basically offered me a positive decision."

Renas raised concerns with his solicitor who alerted the authorities.

In a statement Lancashire Police told the following: “We can confirm we have arrested a man on suspicion of misconduct in public office, suspicion of money laundering, bribery, and computer misuse offences”.

It is not clear how many other individuals could have been targeted in this way, if any of those individuals handed over money, or if any cases were approved on the basis of a payment.

Renas has since been assured his refugee status is secure, and the decision to grant him UK residency was not affected by the alleged actions of the decision maker.