Soroca placement center employees face trial for human trafficking

The former director and three employees of the Bădiceni Placement Center in the Soroca district have been sent to trial for human trafficking involving labor exploitation. According to the General Prosecutor's Office, the suspects allegedly exploited vulnerable beneficiaries of the institution by removing them from the center and transporting them to private households.

Once at these locations, the victims were reportedly forced to perform unpaid agricultural work, animal care, and various household services. Prosecutors claim the victims were unable to refuse the work or leave the environment, with suspects allegedly using physical violence, intimidation, and psychological pressure to maintain control.

Additionally, the investigation suggests the suspects used their positions of authority and knowledge of the victims' medical and social vulnerabilities to facilitate the exploitation. The charges also include the alleged misappropriation of social benefits and other financial resources belonging to the beneficiaries, as well as attempts to influence victim testimony.