62-year-old rescued from slavery‑like domestic work in Fortaleza condo

Labor auditors rescued a 62‑year‑old woman who had been forced to work as a domestic servant for more than five decades in a luxury condominium in the Fortaleza metropolitan area. The woman began living with the family at age 7 in 1971 and performed daily household chores, child‑care and meal preparation without a formal contract, regular pay, or any labor rights. She remained in the same family across three generations, working from early morning until night despite health issues.

After the operation, the woman was placed under social assistance, receiving psychosocial support and guidance to claim her rights. The property owners were cited for administrative violations and are subject to criminal investigation. The Ministry of Labor estimates her unpaid wages, benefits and penalties exceed R$1.5 million. A settlement with the Public Ministry of Labor requires the employers to regularize contributions, pay R$50 000 in severance installments, provide a residential property worth at least R$150 000 with furniture, and cover pension contributions until retirement.