Man faces 16 people trafficking charges
Man faces 16 people trafficking charges
A Fijian national has appeared at the Manukau District Court today on 16 charges of people trafficking under the Crimes Act 1961, and 56 other charges under the Immigration Act 2009.
It is alleged that Faroz Ali, also known as Feroz Ali, charged 16 individuals large sums of money for the opportunity to work in New Zealand, facilitated their unlawful entry to New Zealand, and employed them in or arranged for their employment in breach of their visa conditions. The 16 individuals were also subjected to exploitative working conditions.
The maximum penalty for a people trafficking offence is 20 years’ imprisonment and/or a fine of $500,000.
Ali, who is a New Zealand resident, has been remanded on bail until his next court appearance on 29 July.
As the matter is now before the courts Immigration New Zealand is unable to provide any further comment.
ENDS