Peru Investigates Alleged Trafficking of Citizens to Fight in Ukraine Conflict

Peru Launches Investigation into Alleged Human Trafficking Network

The Peruvian public prosecutor’s office has announced an investigation into an alleged human trafficking network that targeted citizens with false job offers in Russia. According to the prosecutor’s office, individuals were recruited through deceptive job offers to work as security agents and other roles in Russia, with promises of financial compensation.

The investigation will focus on alleged crimes of “human trafficking” and “aggravated human trafficking”. The Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has asked the Russian embassy in Lima for clarification on the situation and information about the location and well-being of Peruvian citizens serving in the Russian military.

Moscow’s embassy in Lima acknowledged that Peruvians had signed contracts to join the Russian armed forces. Thirteen Peruvian citizens have reportedly died in Ukraine, according to a lawyer representing families of victims. An estimated 600 Peruvians are believed to have been lured since last October to fight for Russia.

The Peruvian government has expressed concern over the recruitment of foreign nationals to fight in Ukraine. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that Peruvian citizens require permission from the Foreign Ministry before serving in a foreign military.

Families of some victims protested outside the ministry in Lima, demanding their loved ones be repatriated. This incident is part of a growing trend of countries raising complaints against Russia over deceptive recruitment practices.

Source: Al Jazeera