Trafficked young footballers say they were abandoned as Cádiz case nears trial | OneFootball

Nearly five years after Guardia Civil’s Operation Promises broke up a trafficking ring in Prado del Rey, survivors say they have been left without support as the case finally approaches court. The Audiencia Provincial de Cádiz has listed a first hearing for 21 April before Section Eight in Jerez de la Frontera.

"As of today, the lawyers have not contacted us. We know about it from a colleague. We do not even know their voices," said one of the men. He was speaking to El Correo de Andalucía.

The June 2020 operation led to three arrests and the release of eight young men, one a minor, from a house described as having inhuman conditions. They had been promised well paid work and a football registration, but were forced into prostitution.

"Some colleagues had part of their wages taken when they started working," he said. "We are not asking for money, only legal help."

He said there had been about 16 men in the house, some withdrew complaints after threats so 10 remain. "The only thing we have from all that was promised is residency," he added, noting they are now scattered around Spain and some in Europe.

"I was scammed," he said, explaining he handed over 25,000 dollars and that each man has handled his debts as he could. "I had to get my family out of my city and even pay people in the neighbourhood to protect them. During this time I have received threats on social media. It has not been five years of roses."

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo