Cologne Raid Uncovers Widespread Labour Law Violations

A recent inspection in Cologne and surrounding areas reveals alarming labour law violations, with nine employers failing to keep hourly records and seven employees found working illegally. The investigation continues.

, and Administrator

2025 October 21 . 12:03 AM

1 min read

In this picture we can see a market, in which we can see some stoles and we can see few people are... — In this picture we can see a market, in which we can see some stoles and we can see few people are around.

Cologne Raid Uncovers Widespread Labour Law Violations

Over 100 enforcement officers recently inspected businesses in Cologne, Bonn, Leverkusen, and surrounding districts. The operation, led by the Cologne Main Customs Office, uncovered numerous labour law violations, including suspected minimum wage breaches and illegal employment.

The inspection, conducted on March 13, 2025, revealed several alarming findings. Nine employers failed to maintain hourly records as required by the Minimum Wage Act. This lack of documentation made it difficult to verify if the minimum wage was being paid to all employees.

In total, three employees were suspected of not receiving the minimum wage. Additionally, six employees were found to potentially be working 'on the black market', without proper social security registration. This discovery led to six cases of potential social benefit fraud being identified.

The investigation is ongoing, with the Cologne Main Customs Office currently examining the employers of the illegally employed individuals. On-site questioning of employees is just the beginning of this process. Further residence-related measures will be decided by the competent immigration authorities as the investigation progresses.

The recent inspection in Cologne and surrounding areas has highlighted significant labour law violations. With nine employers failing to keep hourly records and seven illegally employed individuals found, the investigation underscores the importance of compliance with minimum wage regulations and proper employee registration. The Cologne Main Customs Office continues to investigate the matter, with further measures to be decided by immigration authorities.