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London: An investigation into the United Kingdom’s asylum system has uncovered alleged exploitation by Pakistani and Bangladeshi migrants who are reportedly pretending to be gay to secure residency in the country. The findings emerged from an undercover probe conducted by the BBC, which pointed to the involvement of a network of legal advisers and law firms.

Misuse of UK asylum system by Pak, Bangladeshi migrants

According to the report, migrants whose visas are nearing expiry are being provided with fabricated cover stories. These services are allegedly offered by a “shadow industry” that charges significant fees to help build false asylum claims.

The migrants can apply for asylum by claiming to be gay, fearing for their lives if they return to Pakistan or Bangladesh.

The asylum system in the UK is designed to protect individuals who face genuine danger in their home countries. In nations like Pakistan and Bangladesh, where same-sex relations are illegal, such claims can qualify applicants for protection.

How false claims are built

The investigation found that legal advisers guide migrants on creating fake evidence, including medical reports, photographs and support letters. In some cases, individuals were reportedly told to attend mental health or depression support groups to strengthen their applications.

Undercover reporters, acting as migrants from Pakistan and Bangladesh, discovered that firms were charging up to £7,000 (Rs 8.86 lakh) to prepare false claims and assured clients that rejection chances were “very low”.

One adviser, with over 17 years of experience, allegedly offered to arrange a person to pose as a same-sex partner.

At a support group visited during the investigation, attendees claimed “not even 0.01 per cent” people there were gay.

Government and political response

The UK Home Office warned, “Anyone found trying to exploit the system will face the full force of the law, including removal from the UK.”

Labour MP Jo White said, “It is absolutely essential that the government cracks down on them the police will begin their activity and break it apart.”

Opposition Conservative leader Chris Philp said, “The whole system is rotten. The asylum system must be totally overhauled only a very small number of people facing real personal persecution are given asylum.”