They were promised work and accommodation, but allegedly ended up working 10–12 hours a day without pay, rest days or regular financial support, and were reportedly beaten and threatened if their performance was deemed inadequate, according to the police.
Men allegedly forced to work without pay
Hungarian police have arrested a 55-year-old man suspected of human trafficking and forced labour after five men were allegedly exploited at a property in Vecsés, near Budapest, for around two years.
According to the Pest County Police Headquarters, the victims were initially promised employment and accommodation. Instead, investigators say they were forced to work long hours under threats and physical abuse.
The men were reportedly accommodated at a property in Vecsés. On weekdays, they were taken to Budapest to carry out construction and electrical work, while in Vecsés they were made to perform tasks related to animal husbandry.
They allegedly worked 10 to 12 hours a day without proper rest periods or days off. Despite carrying out the work for around two years, they reportedly received no wages or regular financial support.
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Victims allegedly lived in fear
Police say the investigation revealed increasingly serious details after one of the alleged victims filed a report at the Budapest Police Headquarters’ 18th District Police Station late on 26 August.
Officers from Monor arrived at the Vecsés property shortly after midnight and began gathering information. The subsequent questioning of the alleged victims reportedly shed further light on the conditions in which they had been living and working.
According to investigators, the men were kept in a state of fear and were allegedly assaulted when their performance did not meet expectations.
One man was reportedly forced to continue working despite a musculoskeletal injury. Another was allegedly punched several times and was so frightened that he did not dare seek medical attention for his injuries.
Suspect denies the allegations
Police arrested the 55-year-old Lajos T. shortly after the report was made. He was taken into custody and prosecutors sought his pre-trial detention, which was subsequently ordered by the court. The suspect denies committing the offences and has lodged a complaint against the allegations.
Police are still searching for his alleged accomplice. The Pest County Police Headquarters is investigating the case on suspicion of human trafficking and forced labour committed against multiple victims. The investigation is ongoing.
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