Oxford Resident Sentenced for Illegally Providing Immigration Advice

11/01/2011

Kudzai Rangarirai, an Oxford resident, was today, 11 January 2011, convicted at Southwark Crown Court of illegally providing immigration advice.

Rangarirai, (42), who had worked for law firms, knew that he had to be regulated by the Law Society or the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) before he could give immigration advice.  Nevertheless, he illegally advised two Zimbabwean care workers who complained to the OISC about the advice they received.

He pleaded guilty to one count of illegally supplying immigration advice and services, received a Continual Discharge for 3 years and ordered to pay £850 in compensation and £1,500 in costs.

Speaking about the decision, Immigration Services Commissioner Suzanne McCarthy said, "Rangarirai chose to operate outside the law and with no regard for his clients.  I hope this case sends a clear message to other people considering providing immigration advice - either act within the law or you will find yourself in court."

Notes to the Editor:

1. The Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) is an independent public body set up under the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999.

2. Since 30 April 2001 it has been a criminal offence for an adviser to provide immigration advice or services unless their organisation:
 has registered with the OISC;
 has been exempted from registration by the OISC or ministerial order; or
is otherwise qualified under the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999

3.  The OISC is responsible for ensuring that all immigration advisers fulfil the requirements of good practice. The OISC is committed to the elimination of unscrupulous advisers and the fair and thorough investigation of complaints. Whilst it does not regulate solicitors it does take complaints against solicitors. 

4. For more information contact Sharon Harris, Assistant Communications Officer at the OISC, on 0207 211 1619.