Tough new laws are being brought in to prevent companies from hiring illegal workers. Employers caught giving them jobs will be blacklisted and could face up to two years in jail and a fine of BD4,000.

Those sheltering illegal workers who have run away from their bosses will also be prosecuted, said Labour Minister Jameel Humaidan.

The latest figures show 50,000 expatriate workers are no longer working for their original employer.

“We have increased inspections through joint teams comprising Labour Market Regulatory Authority inspectors and policemen, but greedy people continue to just think about making money,” said Mr Humaidan.

“Unfortunately, some believe what they are doing is right and that’s why we are not able to contain the situation as it is, despite the numbers (of runaways) dropping.”

Mr Humaidan said the Legislation and Legal Opinion Commission was seeking to introduce a law that would bring labour accommodations under the Labour Ministry’s jurisdiction.