Court for trio accused of human trafficking

Three also facing charge of participating in a criminal organisation

Three people have appeared at Douglas Courthouse accused of human trafficking.

Joseph Vidal, Jupiter Villacillo and Mary Ann Nemeno face 17 charges of arranging human trafficking for the purpose of exploitation.

The offences allegedly took place between June 2022 and October 2023.

They're also accused of participating in a criminal organisation between April 2022 and October 2023.

Mr Vidal, who is also known as Solomon Gre, appeared in court via live video link.

The 46-year-old, from Golders Green Crescent in London, was assisted by a Hebrew interpreter.

Mr Villacillo, who is 52, and 42-year-old Ms Nemeno, of Osborne Grove in Douglas, appeared in person with the latter assisted by a Tagalog interpreter.

The trio's advocates told the court that committal proceedings - where the case is elevated to the Court of General Gaol Delivery - will be challenged.

The case was adjourned to 28 July; bail continues.

Update: The case was mentioned at Douglas Courthouse on 28 July. A contested committal hearing will be held on 15 October.