A group exploiting migrants from Ukraine uncovered in Portugal

Authorities in Portugal’s southern Alentejo region carried out extensive raids on farms, resulting in the arrest of 28 individuals suspected of involvement in human trafficking and labor exploitation. Among the victims are migrants from Ukraine, Romania, Moldova, India and other countries, Reuters reported.

The suspects are allegedly part of a criminal network that exploited migrants from various countries by enticing them to Portugal with promises of farm work. A total of 78 searches were conducted, leading to the confiscation of incriminating evidence and the identification of numerous victims. Those apprehended, including both Portuguese citizens and foreign nationals, face charges related to human trafficking, criminal association, facilitating illegal immigration, unauthorized labor recruitment, extortion, money laundering and physical abuse.

Scheduled for interrogation before a judge on Wednesday, these individuals are linked to cases of labor exploitation where vulnerable migrants find themselves trapped in unpaid labor, while also being victims of human trafficking. The agricultural sector, in particular, has witnessed an increase in such exploitative practices with workers often having their documents confiscated, wages withheld and living in substandard accommodations. The Council of Europe highlighted a concerning trend in Portugal, reporting 1,152 suspected trafficking victims between 2016 and 2020. However, despite this significant number, the rate of investigations, prosecutions and convictions remains disproportionately low.