Ten suspects charged with human trafficking, torture

Abu Dhabi: Ten suspects have been referred to the Abu Dhabi Criminal Court on several charges that include human trafficking, prostitution and the physical and psychological torture of 17 victims.

The Abu Dhabi Public Prosecution demanded the harshest punishment for the suspects in line with the UAE's policy of promoting human rights and protecting victims of sexual abuse and human trafficking.

They were also charged with possessing and selling pornographic movie CDs and alcohol as well as using commercial activity as a cover for prostitution.

The suspects allegedly confessed to forcing the victims into prostitution after recruiting them as beauticians. They obtained work permits and visas for their victims and confiscated their passports on arrival, the prosecution said.