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Multitudes of suspect laborers, predominantly black, were seized during a raid at Gamescom

Customs authorities executed a significant operation at the Gamescom computer games event to suppress unlawful activities in the realm of security services.

Raids at Gamescom target numerous suspects identified as black laborers
Raids at Gamescom target numerous suspects identified as black laborers

Multitudes of suspect laborers, predominantly black, were seized during a raid at Gamescom

In the bustling city of Bonn and the vibrant metropolis of Cologne, authorities have launched a comprehensive crackdown on undeclared work, social welfare fraud, and sham self-employment within the security industry.

The operation, which commenced on the opening day of the Gamescom, a prominent gaming trade fair, saw nearly 150 employees from over 40 security companies being scrutinised. The investigations were carried out in various locations, including refugee and homeless shelters, shops, the university campus, and the Gamescom venue itself.

The initial indications suggest that each case uncovered in Bonn involves these malpractices. The Gamescom, initially opened for trade visitors on Wednesday and the general public from Thursday, was not spared from the scrutiny, with the customs authority (Zoll) deploying nearly 60 personnel to secure all entrances.

In Cologne, the raid at the Gamescom uncovered nearly 50 suspected cases of undeclared work and social security violations in the security and caregiving sectors. This includes the employment of a minor as a security guard. The operation in Cologne involved about 60 customs officers.

The complex subcontractor structures in the security industry are believed to be the root cause of this issue. Many security personnel working on the first day were only identified by their first name or couldn't specify their company, making it challenging to verify their employment status and compliance with regulations.

A total of 23 security personnel from seven companies were controlled in various locations in Bonn. As the investigations continue, authorities aim to ensure fair and legal employment practices within the security industry, safeguarding both the workers and the events they protect.

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