Customs controls in Kiel: Illegal employment and minimum wage in focus!

Customs controls in Kiel: Illegal employment and minimum wage in focus!

Yesterday the time had come: Almost 80 customs officers from the Financial Control of Undeclared Work (FKS) of the Main Customs Office in Kiel put the transport and logistics industry through its paces! At rest areas such as Aalbek-West (A7), Buddikate and Ellerbrook (A1) as well as in Lübeck, strict attention was paid to compliance with the law. They were supported by emergency services from the state and federal police as well as the Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility.

“The focus of the audit was on the minimum working conditions and the employer’s obligations in accordance with the Minimum Wage Act,” explained Gabriele Oder, spokeswoman for the Kiel Main Customs Office. A total of 173 truck drivers were surveyed, and the results are alarming: in three cases there is suspicion of illegal employment! There are also two suspected cases of benefit fraud. The investigation is now continuing intensively to ensure the correct payment of the minimum wage.

Illegal work in the sights

The statutory minimum wage, which has been gradually increased since 2015, has already been 12.41 euros per hour since January 1, 2024 and will rise to 12.82 euros at the beginning of next year. The tests are just the beginning - extensive follow-up investigations are pending. The data from the employees surveyed is now compared with the companies’ payroll and financial records. Customs works closely with other authorities and the pension insurance to combat undeclared work and illegal employment.

The FKS carries out nationwide and regional audits all year round in order to secure social systems and state revenues and to ensure fair competitive conditions. Yesterday's controls are a clear indication that customs are not letting up when it comes to combating undeclared work!