Businessman arraigned on human trafficking charge for exploiting Indian worker

Posted: Thursday, August 8, 2024. 2:50 pm CST.

By Breaking Belize News Staff: Harish Kishanchand, a 46-year-old businessman from Belize City, was arraigned Wednesday on a charge of trafficking in persons. The charge stems from allegations that he exploited a 21-year-old Indian national for forced labor.

Kishanchand, who owns Chic’s and Harry’s Import, appeared before the Senior Magistrate in Court #2, accompanied by his attorney Jacqueline Willoughby. The charge, which covers the period from January to November 2022, accuses Kishanchand of abusing the victim’s vulnerability to compel him into unpaid labor.

The prosecution, led by Director of Public Prosecutions Cheryl Lynn-Vidal, did not oppose bail but requested strict conditions. Kishanchand was granted bail of $6,000 with conditions, including surrendering his travel documents, reporting weekly to the police, and avoiding any contact with the victim.

The case is scheduled for a follow-up hearing on September 30, 2024.

The allegations detail that the victim was lured to Belize with promises of a well-paying job, but upon arrival, his passport was confiscated, and he was forced to work long hours without pay. He claims he was beaten when he inquired about his wages and was only paid once during his entire employment.

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