Today, an Indian businessman draped his head with a towel as he left court after being charged for human trafficking.
46 year old Harish Kishanchand a business owner from Church Street was arraigned on a single charge of trafficking in persons. The charge arises from a complaint made by a former worker who alleged between January 21, 2022 and November 13 2022, Kishanchand forced him to provide forced labour. The 21 year old victim, an Indian man, told police that he was deceived by his boss and that made him run away and that's when he reported the matter to police.
Kishanchand - who owns "Chic" and "Harry's Imports" - appeared in court with his attorney, Jacqueline Willoughby while the DPP Cheryl Lynn-Vidal appeared for the crown.
The DPP had no objection to bail and it was offered bail in the sum of $6,000 dollars. As a condition of his bail, he must surrender all his travel documents to the Clerk of Court along with other strict requirements. His next court date is set for September 30, 2024.
The victim told police he was recruited in India and that he would be provided suitable pay along with accommodation and a work permit. He claims that once in Belize he had to work 7 days a week, that his passport was taken from him and he was not allowed to leave the premises without supervision. The victim further alleged that he was beaten by his boss when he inquired about his unpaid monthly salary and his passport.
