Labor Exploitation Victims Discovered in Cyprus

Victims of labor exploitation have been found in Cyprus. They were identified during inspections conducted as part of control operations coordinated by Europol across Europe.

According to the police press office, joint European operations coordinated by Europol took place over a week from April 20 to 27 as part of efforts to combat crimes related to labor exploitation.

During a week of inspections, the Anti-Trafficking Unit of the Police Headquarters, with the assistance of competent inspectors from the Ministry of Labor and Social Insurance, conducted checks at seven premises, where a total of 43 individuals were inspected.

Evidence of two cases of labor exploitation was discovered in Cyprus during the control operations. Five people were identified as victims of labor exploitation and, with the assistance of the Social Welfare Services, were relocated to a safe place of residence.

One individual was arrested for further investigation. The case has already been registered in the Nicosia District Court for immediate decision-making. Additionally, the police are investigating a second case of labor exploitation, evidence of which was also obtained during inspections conducted in Cyprus as part of a joint European operation.

It is also noted that overall, during inspections covering 31 countries across Europe, 334 potential victims of labor exploitation were discovered, and 51 individuals were arrested.