On Tuesday, the Netherlands Labour Authority's Investigation Service arrested a married couple in the Den Bosch region on suspicion of human trafficking. They are suspected of exploiting their minor daughter for years by making her work long days at markets in the Netherlands and Belgium from a young age. When the 2 suspects were arrested, data carriers were also seized and the home was searched.
Following a report made by the daughter, who has since reached adulthood, a criminal investigation into labour exploitation was launched under the authority of the Public Prosecution Service's National Office for Serious Fraud, Environmental Crime and Asset Confiscation. The daughter had to work many hours in the business from a young age. She often worked long days and working weeks, sometimes up to 7 days a week. As a result, she eventually had to stop going to school. If she was ill, she still had to work, and her safety at work was barely taken into account. She had no privacy in the home where she was staying. It is also alleged that her parents and other family members used physical violence against her. This situation lasted for around 5 years, from the age of 13 to 18.
Labour exploitation
Labour exploitation has been criminalised as a form of human trafficking. This may include being forced to perform work or services. Human trafficking is a crime against personal liberty and violates fundamental human rights. It is punishable under Section 273f of the Dutch Criminal Code. Human trafficking carries a maximum prison sentence of 12 years, or even 15 years where the victim is a minor. The prospect of such a sentence emphasises that this is an extremely serious offence. The Netherlands Labour Authority's Investigation Service follows up all signs of human trafficking and labour exploitation.
Reporting helps!
The Netherlands Labour Authority emphasises the importance of reporting unfair, unsafe or unhealthy working conditions. Reports and tips are indispensable in tackling these kinds of abuses. Abuse can be reported through our website. Reports or tips can also be provided through Anonymous Crime Report on 0800 70 00, or the police on 0900 88 44. More information is also available at zelfinspectie.nl (Dutch).