UK immigration enforcement officers have arrested three people over an alleged criminal network accused of helping migrants, mainly Bangladeshi men, submit fraudulent asylum claims by pretending to be gay.

Two people were arrested in London on suspicion of fraud and immigration offences, while a third was detained on suspicion of being in the UK illegally, the Home Office said.

Officers also seized mobile phones, jewellery and thousands of pounds in cash during Tuesday morning raids.

The suspects are accused of charging migrants between £1,000 and £4,500 for fabricated evidence, including staged photographs, fake documents and letters claiming same-sex relationships.

The Home Office said more than 100 asylum claims linked to the alleged network are being reviewed. Regional criminal investigations lead Chris Foster said some fraudulent applications had “undoubtedly” been granted.

The investigation follows a BBC report earlier this year that exposed advisers and community groups allegedly helping migrants fabricate evidence for LGBT-based asylum claims.

Foster said the latest arrests relate to separate claims linked to Apanjon, a Bangladeshi community LGBT organisation based in Whitechapel, east London.

The Home Office said immigration judges had previously raised concerns about the reliability of evidence submitted by Apanjon, including staged photographs.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said people who fake persecution “mock real victims who need protection” and warned that those involved would be prosecuted and removed from the country.

Asylum fraud carries a maximum prison sentence of up to 10 years in the UK.

Source: BBC