Human Rights Platform Urges Action for Over 100 Victims of Human Trafficking in Güzelyurt
The Human Rights Platform reported that over a hundred individuals, identified as “victims of human trafficking,” have sought refuge with the police.
The platform urged authorities to take immediate steps to ensure the safety of these individuals and to facilitate their access to justice.
In a written statement from the Platform, it was mentioned that approximately 600 workers were brought in for Cypfruvex, suspected of being victims of human trafficking. However, the majority did not report to the police due to security concerns.
SUSPICION OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING
A statement was issued in response to a local press report highlighting concerns that workers brought to Güzelyurt for Cypfruvex were being held in inhumane conditions, suggesting “suspicion of human trafficking.”
The statement emphasized that the working and living conditions of these workers were assessed “within the scope of labor exploitation and human trafficking.” It included the following remarks:
“The situation intensified today as more than 100 workers approached the police with similar complaints. However, it is known that the remaining workers, totaling around 600, have requested assistance but hesitate to contact the police due to security concerns. This indicates that the number could increase further in the future.
“We urgently call on the authorities to take immediate action to guarantee the safety of human trafficking victims and facilitate their access to justice in a secure manner.”
The statement condemned the idea of returning victims to camps with poor conditions, stating: “This would lead to the re-victimization of victims of human trafficking. It is crucial to implement temporary shelter and protection measures urgently until permanent solutions are found to address the victims’ need for safe accommodation, as police protection is currently inadequate.”
The statement also highlighted that the Platform provides legal support to ensure victims can access justice, asserting, “The sensitivity of society and the press regarding this incident is vital in the fight against human trafficking.”
