Italian Police Free 33 Indian Farm Workers from Slave-Like Conditions

Italian police freed 33 Indian farm workers from exploitative conditions in Verona and seized nearly €500,000 from their abusers. The workers paid large sums for visas but were forced into grueling labor at low wages. The perpetrators, also Indian, face charges related to slavery. Italy grapples with labor exploitation issues.

Italian police announced on Saturday that they had liberated 33 Indian farm laborers from conditions akin to slavery in Verona province and confiscated nearly €500,000 from their two alleged exploiters. This highlights the ongoing issue of labor exploitation in Italy, brought to attention following a tragic incident in June where an Indian fruit picker lost his life.

According to police reports, the alleged ringleaders, also Indian nationals, brought their compatriots to Italy through seasonal work permits. These workers paid €17,000 each, lured by the promise of a better future. However, they were subjected to seven-day workweeks, laboring 10-12 hours daily for just €4 per hour, which went entirely towards settling their debts. The police described their plight as modern-day slavery.

Some workers were coerced into continuing their labor without pay, being charged an additional €13,000 for a permanent work permit that was never intended to be issued. Authorities have charged the perpetrators with crimes related to slavery and labor exploitation, while the victims will receive protection, employment opportunities, and legal residency. Labor exploitation remains a challenge in Italy, especially in agriculture, with a significant portion of workers employed illegally.

(With inputs from agencies.)