Authorities in Prato are investigating two Chinese nationals accused of charging migrants money in exchange for a place in line outside the local immigration office. The case has raised concerns about exploitation and access to essential services for foreigners seeking legal status.
Investigators believe the suspects organized a system that controlled access to queues at the police department’s immigration office, where migrants go to apply for asylum, residence permits, or document renewals. Prosecutors say people were allegedly asked to pay between 1,000 and 1,500 euros to secure a position.
The investigation was ordered by the local State Attorney’s Office, which instructed police to search the homes of the suspects. Authorities say individuals working with them allegedly queued early in the morning and then sold their spots to migrants willing to pay.
According to prosecutor Luca Tescaroli, the alleged scheme interfered with the normal functioning of the office and created tension among people waiting. Reports also mention incidents of violence, including an alleged assault on a Pakistani man and earlier attacks on two Egyptian nationals who were waiting to renew documents.
During searches, police reportedly seized documents related to asylum applications and about 3,000 euros in cash. Investigators also identified at least 13 people suspected of helping manage the queue system.
Officials said the scheme caused delays for other migrants, especially because the office handles a limited number of applications per session. Those unable to pay allegedly faced longer waits or intimidation.
Political reactions followed, with Chiara La Porta of the Brothers of Italy calling the case evidence of a criminal network exploiting vulnerable migrants and urging stronger enforcement.
Authorities continue to investigate to determine the full scope of the operation and whether more people were involved, as concerns grow about fair access to immigration services.