Labour exploitation in Romagna: Pakistani entrepreneur arrested in Forlì
A 28-year-old Pakistani entrepreneur has been arrested by Forlì carabinieri on suspicion of agricultural labour exploitation in Romagna.
Arrest for labour brokerage in the countryside of Forlì-Cesena and Ravenna
Carabinieri in Forlì have executed a custodial remand order against a 28-year-old Pakistani entrepreneur, accused of unlawful labour intermediation and labour exploitation in the agricultural sector. The report comes from terraevita.edagricole.it, noting that the measure was issued by the preliminary investigation judge as part of an investigation involving the collaboration of the National Labour Inspectorate in Forlì and Inail.
According to the investigators' reconstruction, the man allegedly systematically recruited foreign workers in conditions of particular vulnerability, directing them to agricultural companies in the provinces of Forlì-Cesena and Ravenna. The labourers were transported to work sites in overcrowded vans, departing from predetermined collection points in the Forlì area.
The documented remuneration amounted to between 5 and 6 euros net per hour, representing a shortfall of more than 50% compared with the minimum rates set by collective bargaining. No additional payments were allegedly made for overtime, holiday work and Sunday working; deductions were instead applied for breaks. Investigators also contest the non-payment of transfer time and violations relating to working hours, rest periods and holidays.
The investigation has further documented alleged irregularities concerning occupational health and safety, as well as working conditions considered degrading. Many of the labourers came from reception centres and had limited knowledge of Italian, a circumstance that, according to the prosecution, would have increased their vulnerability.
Source: Google News IT — Crime (it)