Former immigration adviser convicted after OISC investigation
Man fled to Canada after pleading guilty
A Surrey man who fled abroad when he was found guilty of providing unlawful immigration advice after an investigation by the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner, has been sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 15 months.
Mr Mukesh Oad, 44, a former immigration caseworker, pleaded guilty on 1 July 2016 at Westminster Magistrates Court to providing immigration advice whilst not being registered with a regulatory body*. The law requires that immigration advice can only be given by registered and regulated individuals. Mr Oad provided advice illegally on 14 separate occasions and charged clients significant sums of money.
He fled the country before sentencing took place. Following his return in June last year, he attended Isleworth Crown Court in July 2022 where he was a given a three-week custodial sentence for failing to surrender to bail.
John Tuckett, Immigration Services Commissioner, said: “People who seek immigration advice are often in a vulnerable position and Mukesh Oad allowed people to put their trust in him, and took advantage of that.
“These offences were very serious, and the prosecution and sentencing send a clear message that the OISC and courts will take tough action against those who break the law by providing advice illegally.”
ENDS
Sentencing detail:
Dealing with the original offences at Isleworth Crown Court on 10 March 2023, His Honour Judge Hammerton handed Mr Oad:
- 12 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 15 months, for each offence (14) to run concurrently.
- 100 hours’ of unpaid work (community service order) to be completed within 12 months.
- Requirement to pay compensation of £3,400 to several victims.
Media queries to the OISC via communications@oisc.gov.uk
*Please note:
Under section 91 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 a person commits an offence if they provide immigration advice or immigration services in contravention of section 84. Section 84 provides that:
“No person may provide immigration advice or immigration services unless he is a qualified person.”
Mr Oad was found guilty of providing immigration advice when not qualified to do so.