The Elche Prosecutor’s Office has requested prison terms ranging from 15 to 18 years for the four defendants, three men and one woman. They are accused of running a human trafficking operation in the city that allegedly involved prostitution, exploitation, and violations of the rights of individuals within a criminal organization.
According to the charging document, the events took place between 2019 and 2021, years marked by the COVID-19 pandemic. During this period, prosecutors say the defendants consistently engaged in activities that supported a trafficking scheme aimed at exploiting victims for profit. It is alleged that a portion of the management and control of the operation involved women from Colombia who faced financial hardships and helped facilitate travel to Spain for the purpose of prostitution to sustain revenue streams.
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Upon arrival in Elche, the public contends, the victims were confined to a single residence, were allowed to leave for only one hour each day if they were engaged in work, and were compelled to work around the clock. They were reportedly burdened by an alleged debt collected by the organization and were coerced into prostitution as a means of repayment. The hearing is scheduled for the coming Thursday to address these charges and determine the applicable penalties. (Elche Prosecutor’s Office)