A covert investigation reveals a disturbing pattern in certain parts of the asylum process. The report shows that some migrants and their advisers are faking evidence using fake identities, scripted stories, and staged proof.
Zahid Hasan, a lawyer who secretly advised a reporter pretending to be a Bangladeshi college student was at the heart of this case. This student said he dropped out of college and wanted asylum to remain in the UK.
Akhand described the asylum process during a meeting at a office in Mile End Road, east London. He explained three routes to asylum:
- Sexual orientation
- Religious beliefs
- Politics
Akhand provided legal assistance for 1,500 PS. The process included the preparation of documents, mock interviews and guidance through the application.
Faking Evidence
Investigation revealed that candidates were encouraged to fabricate false evidence to back up their claims. Akhand said he would connect his clients to people that could provide these services.
The cost of these services is between PS2 000 and PS3000.
Alternatively, he suggested that people join atheist blogs or platforms. Individuals could pay a fee to publish articles that would support their arguments.
Investigations revealed several additional methods of supporting fake asylum claims:
- Hire someone as your same-sex companion
- Articles in niche magazines: Paying for them
- Participating in protests is a way to show that you are politically active
- Fake online profiles and websites to create fake histories
This is done to make a story believable enough for official scrutiny.
An Growing Concern
Fraudulent practices can damage the trust of people in the system, even though genuine asylum seekers are at real risk.
The authorities may be more careful, and this could impact those who have legitimate claims.
The conclusion of the article is:
This investigation reveals a network of small, but well-organized individuals who help fabricate asylum claims.
The investigation shows just how easy it is to misuse sensitive categories such as religion, sexuality and political beliefs.
It is urgent to find a balance between fairness and stricter verification.
