Company officials face migrant exploitation charges

Three people involved in the management of an Auckland restaurant chain have been arrested at their homes in the city this morning and charged with offences relating to the exploitation of migrant workers.

The charges follow an extensive investigation by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) into allegations of exploitation of migrant workers in the restaurant industry.

The three people - who cannot be named for legal reasons - have been bailed to appear in the Auckland District Court next Wednesday, 15 April.

One of the defendants faces a total of 14 charges, including exploitation and conspiracy charges relating to three migrant workers, aiding and abetting a person to remain unlawfully in New Zealand and supplying false and misleading information to an immigration officer.

Another of the defendants faces five charges, including exploitation charges relating to two workers and aiding and abetting two workers to either breach their visa conditions, or remain in New Zealand unlawfully.

The third defendant faces six charges relating to one worker, including forgery and supplying false and misleading information to an immigration officer.

Investigations are ongoing and further parties may be charged.

INZ is unable to make any further comment as the matter is now before the courts.

THE Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment - of which INZ is a part - encourages anyone with concerns about their employment situation to call its contact centre on 0800 20 90 20 where their call will be handled in a safe environment.

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