'Illegal immigrants' held in nursing home raid

Thirteen suspected illegal immigrants have been detained following a raid at a nursing home, the UK Border Agency (UKBA) said today.

Assisted by Hampshire police, the UKBA targeted the Linford Park Nursing Home in Ringwood, Hampshire, yesterday following concerns raised about care for a resident at the centre.

Police have arrested four people in connection with care at the home.

A 62-year-old man from Christchurch, a 61-year-old woman from London and a 78-year-old man from London were arrested yesterday on suspicion of neglect.

They have been released on police bail until October 14 pending further inquiries, according to Hampshire police.

A 47-year-old man from Ringwood was also arrested today on suspicion of neglect.

A police spokeswoman said: "It is believed that those arrested are responsible for the management of the care home or for the care of the residents."

A UKBA spokesman said: "On 29 July UK Border Agency officers, supported by Hampshire Adult Services, conducted an operation at Linford Park Nursing Home, Poulner, Ringwood.

"The operation was intelligence led and targeted immigration offenders working illegally at the home.

"Thirteen people were found working illegally. Two were dealt with at the scene and have been released on immigration bail, a further 11 were detained and remain in detention.

"The 11 were eight females from Ghana, Malawi, and the Philippines and three males from Ghana and the Philippines."