UK immigration amnesty texts a hoax

Many in the United Kingdom cranked up huge phone bills this week after a hoax text message swept across the immigrant community urging them to vote for a nationwide amnesty for illegal immigrants.

In a country where the constant fear of deportation reigns among immigrants, the message sparked a texting frenzy from foreign nationals who believed it was a UK government survey.

The text message proclaimed: "Please ring 08453004433 to vote amnesty 4 immigrants in the UK before Tuesday next wk and pass on the message to as many as u can.

"The UK gvt is considering granting permanent visa/indefinite stay to immigrants that are already here both legal and illegal, this will be presented to the parliament next tuesday. You may not need it but remember ur bros & sis who r in need." (sic)

There were slight variations to the text messages seen by New Zimbabwe.com with one urging at the end: "Let's pray for God to make this happen."

It is not known where the text originated from, but the premium rate number belongs to the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). A recorded voice announces that it is a "BBC London vote line", and advises that the "line is not active at present and all recent votes have now closed".