Hundreds of Human Trafficking Victims Found Among Orange Harvesters in Güzelyurt

The Human Rights Platform has reported that hundreds of individuals working as orange harvesters in Güzelyurt, Northern Cyprus, are victims of human trafficking. Advocates are urging immediate action to ensure the safety of these workers and to provide them with access to justice.

According to the Platform's statement, around 600 workers brought to Güzelyurt by the company Cypfruvex were held under inhumane conditions. About 100 of these workers sought assistance, while the rest "refused to come forward for safety reasons."

The advocates’ statement indicated that the working and living conditions of these individuals were evaluated "in terms of labor exploitation and human trafficking."

"The situation worsened when over 100 workers filed complaints with the police. However, it is known that the remaining workers, totaling 600, are seeking help but are reluctant to approach the police due to safety concerns. This situation suggests that the number of victims could potentially rise," stated the platform representatives.

The Human Rights Platform has called on the authorities to "immediately take necessary steps to ensure the safety of human trafficking victims and provide them with proper access to justice."

"It is crucial to meet the victims' needs for safe shelter and urgently implement measures for temporary accommodation and protection until permanent solutions are found, given the current inadequate police protection," the statement emphasized. The Human Rights Platform is offering legal support to ensure that victims can access justice.

The Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare has already intervened in the situation. According to the minister, the department is investigating the allegations of abuse involving citrus harvest workers in Güzelyurt.