In the Kyiv region, 13 Uzbek citizens have been freed from slavery

In the Kyiv region, 13 Uzbek citizens have been freed from slavery

In the Kyiv region, 13 Uzbek citizens ended up in slavery. The authorities of Uzbekistan advised their citizens not to visit Ukraine and sent an official appeal to Kyiv.

Recently, the Kyiv region prosecutor’s office announced the detention of a group of individuals involved in the recruitment and exploitation of Uzbek citizens.

Among those detained were a Ukrainian woman, two Chinese citizens, and a citizen of Uzbekistan. According to the investigation, they deceived people who were homeless and unemployed in Uzbekistan and transported them to the Kyiv region for forced labor.

People were held in harsh conditions, their freedom of movement was restricted, and they were fined for the slightest violations. Even visiting the toilet was only possible according to a set schedule.

On September 17, law enforcement discovered a premises where 13 Uzbek citizens were held, as well as found documents, money, and transport. All detainees have already been charged.

The Embassy of Uzbekistan in Ukraine reported that all freed Uzbeks are safe, have undergone medical examinations, and were placed in a hospital in the Kyiv region. The embassy sent notes to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine and the Office of the Prosecutor General to ensure consular and legal assistance. The authorities of Uzbekistan are preparing their return to their homeland.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan also urged citizens to refrain from traveling to Ukraine for safety reasons.