NZ's first human trafficking trial: alleged victim gives evidence

Satnam Singh (2nd from left) and Jaswinder Singh Sangha (right) appear in Wellington Court charged with people trafficking. Photo / John Weekes

A man who alleges he was promised permanent residency by a one of three people facing New Zealand's first human trafficking charges has given evidence to the court.

The jury trial of three men arrested in relation to the human trafficking charges has resumed in the High Court at Nelson today.

Two Indian brothers, Jaswinder Singh Sangha and Satnam Singh, and a third man who has name suppression, have all pleaded not guilty to multiple charges.

The charges including arranging the entry of people by deception and giving bogus information to a refugee status officer.

The court this afternoon heard from Raghbir Singh Kaler, who said he first arrived in New Zealand on June 22, 2009.

He said he arrived on a work permit, which he learned about the previous September through his aunt's son, who knew some people who could help arrange it.

He said he then spoke to Jaswinder Singh Sangha.

Mr Kaler, speaking through an interpreter, said Jaswinder told him he could arrange a two-year visa, and he'd then get permanent residency.

The witness said he was then told: "When you become permanent, then your family can come also."

Crown prosecutor Mark O'Donoghue asked the witness: "Were you interested in an opportunity to come and work in New Zealand?"

Mr Kaler responded: "Yes."

The witness said he was told about "immigration fees" and an airline ticket.

He told Jaswinder he was interested, and was then asked to give a copy of his passport.

Mr Kaler said on Jaswinder's advice, he then travelled 90km, to Jalandhar, Punjab, where a distant relative accompanied him.

He said me met Satnam Singh, who was also known as Satta in Jalandhar.

Mr Kaler said Satnam was in an office, and was present when another person in the office completed the papers.

The trial continues.

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