Chinese Workers Found in Poor Condition at Brazilian Construction Site
Discovered in "Slavery-Like Conditions"
Dozens of Chinese workers were found by authorities in poor condition at a construction site in Brazil for electric vehicle automaker BYD. The workers, who were allegedly victims of human trafficking, were living in "slavery-like conditions" under contractor Jinjiang Group.
Investigation Underway
The Bahia state Labor Prosecutor’s Office is investigating the matter, but has not provided evidence to back up their claims. The prosecutor’s office revealed the discovery of the 163 workers and their circumstances, and urged the company to place them at local hotels in Camacari, a city of 300,000 residents located about 1,600 kilometers (997 miles) north of Rio de Janeiro.
Conditions at the Construction Site
A video from the prosecutor’s office showed dorms belonging to the construction site, with beds without mattresses and rudimentary cooking facilities. The Chinese automaker BYD, which stands for Build Your Dreams, has said it will "immediately terminate the contract" with the contractor and is "studying other appropriate measures."
BYD’s Response
BYD did not reply to a request from The Associated Press for comment, and it is not immediately clear if Brazilian prosecutors have raised charges in the case. However, in a statement posted on Thursday, BYD said it objected to reports about poor conditions at the site, saying the allegations were a smearing campaign aimed at China and Chinese brands.
Production Expected to Resume
The facilities where the Chinese workers were found are expected to start production next year. However, many of the Chinese workers have already left the town, and their whereabouts are unclear. It is also unknown who is handling them at this point.
Conclusion
The discovery of Chinese workers in poor condition at a construction site in Brazil has raised concerns about labor practices and human trafficking. The investigation is ongoing, and it remains to be seen what measures will be taken to ensure the well-being of the workers involved.
FAQs
Q: What is the situation with the Chinese workers at the construction site in Brazil?
A: Dozens of Chinese workers were found in poor condition at a construction site in Brazil, allegedly living in "slavery-like conditions" under contractor Jinjiang Group.
Q: What is the role of BYD in this situation?
A: BYD, the Chinese automaker, is building a factory at the construction site and has said it will "immediately terminate the contract" with the contractor and is "studying other appropriate measures."
Q: What is the current situation with the Chinese workers?
A: Many of the Chinese workers have already left the town, and their whereabouts are unclear. It is also unknown who is handling them at this point.
