A story on yesterday's front page incorrectly stated that there was a weekend roundup of 16 illegal aliens working on the Island with a permit. The story should have said six illegal aliens had overstayed their entry visas.

A massive early morning weekend raid netted a total of 16 suspected illegal aliens working on the Island with a permit.

And Government not only sanctioned the raid, but were on hand to watch it as well.

A raid was held early on Saturday morning and future operations could reveal even more.

In addition to the 16 arrested, legal action is also expected to be taken against their employers.

The operation was a joint venture between Bermuda Police Reserves and Immigration officers and concentrated on homes in Pembroke.

It was witnessed by Labour, Home Affairs & Public Safety Minister Paula Cox, along with the ministry's Permanent Secretary, and Chief Immigration Officer.

The minister noted that the undertaking was new to Immigration officers.

"This was the first time Immigration officers have participated in an operation of this nature,'' she said, "and on this first occasion I considered it important for morale that I was there to show my tangible support.

"This was part of an ongoing effort to limit the number of persons from a variety of nationalities, who are working in Bermuda illegally.'' the minister noted.

"In some instances those who were arrested were as much victims as they were offenders and we will be checking businesses that employ illegal aliens as part of our multi-phased approach to the problem.'' she said. Ms Cox hailed this first effort a success and said it paved the way for more co-operation between the departments in the future.

"We kept it highly confidential to protect the security of the officers involved and to maximise results.'' she said.

"I will expect in the not too distant future there will be an opportunity for a strategic partnership to be forged between the Immigration Department and the Narcotics Division of the Bermuda Police Service. "All teams worked well together to achieve our goal. It was a challenging experience for all of us and I want to thank the officers for their efficiency, enthusiasm and cooperation.'' she added.