Dubai: A man and his wife are accused of keeping an alleged victim of human trafficking captive and trying to force her into prostitution. The victim recently managed to escape and contact Dubai Police.
The 20-year-old Arab woman was blackmailed by the Arab suspects after signing a Dh50,000 deposit in her home country meant to cover employment and residency expenses, said Major Dr Sultan Al Jamal, Director of the Department of Combating Human Trafficking of Dubai Police.
"The woman was promised in her home country it would secure her a job at one of the hotels in the UAE. Following continuous threats from the suspects and beatings the woman agreed to comply with their orders to offer herself to one of their clients," he said.
At the airport and upon arrival, she was met by two people who seized her passport and then escorted her to another married couple's house, said Maj Dr Al Jamal.
The wife abused her fellow countrywoman physically and verbally into accepting a job as a prostitute. After threats, the victim agreed and got into her car who was about to drive her to the client. During the ride the victim escaped and fled to the nearest police station to report the abuse and blackmail, he said.
After investigation, the five-member gang was arrested during an undercover operation. Investigations are still being conducted with the suspects as there may be other victims.
Major Dr Al Jamal confirmed the safety of the victim and that the case is still under investigation.
"Fortunately the victim managed to escape before being sexually exploited," he said, while adding they are helping the victim find a job in Dubai.
He urged victims of human trafficking rings not to be frightened by their abusers' threats and to seek help from the police as soon as possible.
When asked about the suspects who conned the victim in her home country, Dr Al Jamal said the matter is still under investigation, adding not all countries cooperate with Dubai Police on issues of human trafficking.
