Man, 50, arrested on charges of human trafficking on Rhodes

A 50-year-old suspect has been apprehended on the island of Rhodes for allegedly forcing a 35-year-old woman into prostitution over the course of six years.

The suspect, a Bulgarian national, was arrested on Sunday, with charges including kidnapping, human trafficking, and violations of immigration laws.

Reportedly, the suspect initially encountered the victim, also of Bulgarian origin, online and lured her to travel to Rhodes with the promise of a better life. Upon her arrival on the Dodecanese island, he purportedly confiscated her travel documents and forcibly confined her to a residence, coercing her into sexual transactions for his own financial gain. Furthermore, he is accused of subjecting the victim to physical and psychological abuse while controlling her communication with her family.

During a search of his residence and vehicle, authorities confiscated 3,587 euros in cash and discovered six mobile phones.

The suspect is scheduled to appear before a Rhodes prosecutor on Monday.