The Beja Court (Tribunal de Beja) has begun the trial of 22 defendants, including seven companies, accused of exploiting immigrants in the Alentejo region. Although the original 55 counts of human trafficking (tráfico de pessoas) were dropped before the trial, defendants still face charges related to illegal weapons and drug trafficking. Those following labor rights in the agricultural sector should note the case stems from a major 2022 investigation into seasonal worker conditions.