Between June 10 and 17, over 27,000 officers inspected 11,360 locations, targeting labor exploitation of non-EU nationals and refugees.
Specifically, the authorities aimed to identify criminal networks that exploit the war in Ukraine and target vulnerable refugees fleeing conflict zones. Traffickers often use fraudulent and false documents in these situations to further exploit their victims.
The operation identified 57 suspects, but only 21 could be taken into custody. Additionally, the data obtained during the operation has prompted the launch of 86 additional investigations aimed at identifying potential suspects and victims associated with human trafficking cases across the EU and beyond.
The inspections primarily focused on "labor-intensive sectors that require low-skilled workers" characterized by precarious working conditions that make employees vulnerable to exploitation, the statement said.
Officers also checked strategic border crossing points in countries of origin, transit, and destination.
Authorities from Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the United Kingdom collaborated to target a specific restaurant chain.
Labor and social security inspectorates, in conjunction with customs, police, food safety, and occupational safety and health agencies, conducted simultaneous checks in 15 restaurants across Europe, resulting in the immediate closure of some locations. Others were fined on the spot.
The Dutch Labor Inspectorate also performed inspections in Indian restaurants in Amsterdam, The Hague, and Almere, leading to the identification of at least five employees without valid employment permits.
These victims faced poor working conditions, were underpaid, and had to work longer hours than permitted.
The Global Slavery Index 2023 shows that the number of individuals living in modern slavery has risen to 50 million, representing an increase since 2018.
According to the International Labour Organization, "migrant workers are more than three times more likely to be in forced labor than non-migrant adult workers," and "most cases of forced labor are found in the private sector."
