Authorities in five European countries have identified more than 70 potential victims in an investigation into alleged labor exploitation at Indian restaurants. The operation, supported by Europol and led by the Netherlands, resulted in two arrests on Sept. 18, 2026. Investigators said the victims, mainly Indian nationals, were allegedly forced to work as many as 16 hours a day, often for six or seven days a week, while receiving wages below legal requirements. Some reportedly worked as dishwashers, cleaners, waiters or restaurant managers despite entering the Netherlands under permits intended for specialist chefs. Authorities inspected 20 restaurants: eight in the Netherlands, seven in Germany, two in Luxembourg, two in Switzerland and one in Belgium. Investigators believe the network may have operated at other restaurants linked to the same chains in France and the participating countries. The criminal network is suspected of generating at least 4 million euros by withholding wages and exploiting workers. Authorities also allege that victims faced penalty contracts, pressure involving their families in India and threats of violence. Europol helped coordinate the operation, facilitate information sharing and analyze the suspected flow of illicit proceeds. Post navigation Europol Task Force Identifies 18 Children