The Public Prosecution Service (OM) does not name the gym specifically, but it is evident that this case is under discussion. Consequently, the suspicion of human trafficking has been dismissed in the criminal investigation. Labor exploitation is considered a form of human trafficking.
The OM’s investigation into human smuggling and forgery is ongoing. This case came to light in June of this year when the Labor Inspectorate discovered individuals at the gym who were not permitted to work in the Netherlands during a routine check.
“During the inspection, the Labor Inspectorate also received signals of potential labor exploitation. This is a form of human trafficking where employees may be compelled to perform work under duress, violence, threats, extortion, or deception,” the OM stated.
Following this, an investigation was initiated, and the first findings are now being released.
As the investigation into human smuggling continues, the OM emphasizes the importance of distinguishing it from human trafficking. “The terms may seem similar, but they refer to different criminal offenses. Human smuggling is legally classified as a crime against the State.”
“This can occur when individuals are assisted in entering the Netherlands or are aided in staying illegally for profit,” the OM added.
In contrast, human trafficking is a crime against an individual. “The preservation of a person’s physical and mental integrity and personal freedom is paramount,” the OM explains. “In cases of human trafficking, there must be evidence of exploitation of someone’s vulnerable position or deception that leads an individual to work or continue working.”
The maximum prison sentence for human smuggling is six years, while for human trafficking, it is twelve years.
