Car Wash Boss Jailed for Trafficking and Torture of Eight Romanians
A car wash owner has been slammed with eight and a half years behind bars for trafficking and exploiting eight Romanian nationals – including a 15-year-old boy. The Met’s Modern Slavery Unit cracked the case after a relentless five-year investigation.
False Promises Led to a Nightmare
Hewa Magari, 45, from Mitcham, duped his victims in late 2020 with bogus promises of good jobs, fair wages, and decent living. Instead, they were trapped in horrific conditions at his car wash.
- The workers were crammed into a tiny on-site room
- Forced to work non-stop without breaks
- Endured brutal physical and psychological abuse
During the Covid-19 lockdown, things turned even darker. Victims were locked inside, passports confiscated to keep them prisoner, while Magari tightened his grip.
Police Rescue After Brave Tip-Off
On February 1, 2021, police swooped after a 15-year-old victim bravely reported the abuse. Officers found seven adults and the teenager living in a filthy shed beside the car wash.
With limited English, the victims revealed they’d paid rent to Magari despite barely working before the business shut during lockdown.
One woman suffered a severe infection from neglect, requiring hospitalisation and multiple surgeries.
Justice Served – Victims Returned Home
Magari was arrested upon returning to the UK in March 2021. At Kingston Crown Court, he was convicted on eight counts of slavery or servitude under the Modern Slavery Act.
Detective Chief Inspector Mike Stubbins said: “The trauma the victims endured is unimaginable. Their courage helped us nail Magari and bring him to justice. Thanks to the team’s swift action, the victims were rescued and safely returned to Romania.”
All victims have since been repatriated safely with support from the Met Police and the International Justice Mission.
Magari also received a 10-year Slavery and Trafficking Prevention Order. Police urge anyone suspecting modern slavery to call 101 immediately.
