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Finnish Court Sentences Kiantama Executives for Human Trafficking

9/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Lapland District Court in Finland sentenced Kiantama executives for aggravated human trafficking of Thai berry pickers.
CEO Vernu Vasunta received a three-and-a-half-year sentence; Thai coordinator Kalyakorn "Durian" Phongphit received three years.
Victims faced excessive charges for flights, visas, and food, incurring debt before arrival.
The court ordered over 600,000 euros in compensation for the workers' suffering and losses.
Kiantama must pay a 100,000 euro fine, and both defendants plan to appeal.

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Story summary

The Lapland District Court in Finland sentenced Kiantama executives for aggravated human trafficking of Thai berry pickers.
CEO Vernu Vasunta received a three-and-a-half-year sentence; Thai coordinator Kalyakorn "Durian" Phongphit received three years.
Victims faced excessive charges for flights, visas, and food, incurring debt before arrival.
The court ordered over 600,000 euros in compensation for the workers' suffering and losses.
Kiantama must pay a 100,000 euro fine, and both defendants plan to appeal.