Rosarno - 30 arrested
Thirty people in Rosarno [Reggio Calabria] were arrested on Monday for exploitation of illegal immigrant workers.
An enquiry set up after the January Rosarno riots and headed by the Public Prosecutor of Palmi [Reggio Calabria] has uncovered an organised gangmaster system which operated in the area.
Under the gangmaster system illegal immigrants – mostly Africans – were hired to work on farms and in factories and then treated like slaves. Fruit-pickers were paid 1 euro for each crate of mandarins they filled and 50 centesimi for a crate of oranges, reports ANSA. They typically earned 22 euros [$29 or £19] for working a 15-hour day in inhumane conditions.
Of the 30 arrested, nine people have been imprisoned and the others have been placed under house arrest. Some of those involved are themselves immigrants. Illegal immigrants who have helped the officers conducting the enquiry have been granted permission to remain in Italy. Politicians from all parties have congratulated the Public Prosecutor of Palmi for his thoroughness and efficiency in carrying out the enquiry.
What kind of sentence do you think the gangmasters should receive?
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