Moroccan Slaughterhouse Managers Face Trial for Alleged Migrant Exploitation

It all started with a complaint filed by a victim against Omar Z., a 40-year-old Moroccan who was running an illegal chicken slaughterhouse with his brother Salah, 32, in a warehouse in Kortrijk, later transferred to another warehouse in Zulte. On June 21, 2021, the judicial police carried out a raid on this last slaughterhouse, and on the legal one of Almanaar in Ingelmunster, managed by Hamid H., another 50-year-old Moroccan, reports Nieuwsblad.be.

"The victims had no toilets, ate in the rain and only had five minutes of break per day. And all that for barely 7 to 8 euros an hour," the prosecution denounced, listing the grievances against Omar Z. In Hamid’s slaughterhouse, the workers "did not have adequate equipment. The cuts were bandaged with a piece of plastic. The accused constantly monitored the victims thanks to cameras."

Given the seriousness of the facts, the prosecution demanded 18 months in prison, a fine of 48,000 euros and the confiscation of 121,000 euros against Omar Z. His brother Salah risks 15 months in prison and a fine of 48,000 euros. Ikram B., Omar Z.’s wife, risks six months in prison with probation for allegedly threatening the worker who filed the complaint.

As for Hamid H., he faces a sentence of two years in prison, a fine of 88,000 euros and the confiscation of 102,000 euros. The prosecution also requested the closure of the two companies. "My client is at most guilty of undeclared work and administrative negligence," pleaded Omar Z.’s lawyer. Hamid’s defense also acknowledges that his client "made mistakes, but he is not a criminal." The two accused will be informed of their fate on February 21.