Woman Arrested for Impersonating Applicants in UK Citizenship Tests Using Disguises
61-year-old allegedly took 'Life in the UK' tests for at least 14 individuals, utilizing various wigs and disguises to avoid detection.
A 61-year-old woman from Enfield, North London, has been arrested on suspicion of impersonating multiple applicants in the 'Life in the UK' citizenship tests.
According to the Home Office, between June 2022 and August 2023, she allegedly took the test on behalf of at least 14 individuals, both male and female, using various wigs and disguises to avoid detection.
The 'Life in the UK' test is a mandatory requirement for individuals seeking British citizenship or indefinite leave to remain.
It consists of 24 questions designed to assess the applicant's knowledge of British values, history, and society.
Authorities executed a warrant at the woman's residence on January 27, 2025, where they discovered a collection of wigs and false documents.
Inspector Phillip Parr of the Immigration Enforcement Criminal and Financial Investigations team stated that the suspect had orchestrated a premeditated plan to avoid detection, meticulously selecting disguises and test center locations across the country.
He suggested that financial gain was the likely motive behind the scheme.
Home Office Minister Dan Jarvis emphasized that this case should serve as a warning to anyone attempting to fraudulently obtain residency in the UK, highlighting the legal consequences of such actions.
The woman remains in custody as the investigation continues.
The Home Office has not yet provided details regarding potential charges or the identities of the individuals for whom she allegedly took the tests.
According to the Home Office, between June 2022 and August 2023, she allegedly took the test on behalf of at least 14 individuals, both male and female, using various wigs and disguises to avoid detection.
The 'Life in the UK' test is a mandatory requirement for individuals seeking British citizenship or indefinite leave to remain.
It consists of 24 questions designed to assess the applicant's knowledge of British values, history, and society.
Authorities executed a warrant at the woman's residence on January 27, 2025, where they discovered a collection of wigs and false documents.
Inspector Phillip Parr of the Immigration Enforcement Criminal and Financial Investigations team stated that the suspect had orchestrated a premeditated plan to avoid detection, meticulously selecting disguises and test center locations across the country.
He suggested that financial gain was the likely motive behind the scheme.
Home Office Minister Dan Jarvis emphasized that this case should serve as a warning to anyone attempting to fraudulently obtain residency in the UK, highlighting the legal consequences of such actions.
The woman remains in custody as the investigation continues.
The Home Office has not yet provided details regarding potential charges or the identities of the individuals for whom she allegedly took the tests.
