A 56-year-old Chinese national residing in Iklin has been remanded in custody after being charged with trafficking another woman and forcing her into sexual acts at a massage parlour in Gżira.
The accused, Shen Man, faces serious allegations including money laundering, trafficking a person for forced labour and prostitution, keeping a brothel, and living off the earnings of prostitution.
Details of the Investigation
During the arraignment before Magistrate Charmaine Galea, the prosecution detailed how the investigation began following a report from the Department for Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER). The report flagged potential exploitation occurring within a Gżira-based massage establishment.
Police conducted surveillance on the premises for several weeks. Their findings revealed that the victim was working excessive hours, typically from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily. Investigations further indicated that the alleged victim was living on-site at the parlour. Authorities also discovered various sex-related items at the location and noted that the accused would visit regularly to collect earnings.
Court Proceedings and Security Measures
The prosecution requested a freezing order on the accused’s assets. Magistrate Galea granted a 30-day window for the defense to justify why this request should not be upheld. Additionally, a protection order was issued in favor of the alleged victim.
While the accused pleaded not guilty, the defense’s request for bail was met with strong opposition. The prosecution argued that investigations are ongoing and the victim has yet to testify. Concerns were also raised regarding a potential flight risk, noting that despite living in Malta for several years, the accused travels frequently.
Magistrate Galea denied bail, citing the gravity of the charges and the risk of witness tampering, given that the accused and the victim are known to one another.
Legal Representation
The prosecution was led by Lawyers Ramon Bonett Sladden and Charmaine Abdilla from the Office of the Attorney General, alongside Inspectors John Spiteri, Dorianne Tabone, and Oscar Baldacchino. Legal counsel Martin Farrugia represented the accused.
