NZ: Investigation underway into the exploitation of Indian, Bangladeshi nationals

New Zealand

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has commenced an in-depth and comprehensive investigation into the alleged case of Indian and Bangladeshi nationals who arrived in New Zealand with the promise of employment that didn’t eventuate.

Led by Immigration Compliance and Investigation but expected to encompass other areas of MBIE such as the Labour Inspectorate, officers have begun talking to the 115 Indian and Bangladeshi nationals who were living in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions in 6 houses across Auckland suburbs.

Given this is a complex active investigation it will take time to gather all of the evidence. There are restrictions on what details can be shared publicly in order to not potentially jeopardise the outcomes of the investigation, or any subsequent prosecutions.

What happens now

• Investigators will speak to a number of witnesses, including the individuals involved to gather evidence and build a complete picture of the situation and gather evidence.
• The Indian High Commission has been engaged to provide support to their nationals.
• MBIE is working with the individuals to help them understand their options. This may include applying for a Migrant Exploitation Work Visa, obtaining employment with a new employer, or making suitable arrangements to leave.
• INZ is working to contact offshore visa holders who are linked to this case to notify them not to travel until they receive further contact.
• If you are a migrant working in New Zealand, and think you are being exploited, do not be afraid to ask Immigration New Zealand for help. We can help you and take action if needed. Cases can be reported to MBIE’s contact centre on 0800 20 90 20. Alternatively, they can be reported to police or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via the online Crimestoppers form.

If you are a migrant working in New Zealand, and think you are being exploited, do not be afraid to ask Immigration New Zealand for help. We can help you and take action if needed. Cases can be reported to MBIE’s contact centre on 0800 20 90 20. Alternatively, they can be reported to police or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via the online Crimestoppers form.

-Press Release