Women go on trial accused of trafficking Brazilians to work as prostitutes

Two women have gone on trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on charges relating to the alleged trafficking of Brazilian nationals for sexual exploitation across rural Irish towns. Natalia Nogueira Da Silva, aged 32, of Drumlish, Co Longford, has pleaded not guilty to human trafficking but guilty to organising prostitution, facilitating illegal entry, and money laundering offences. Her co-accused, Ivanilce Vailones Fidelis, aged 46, of Roscommon, has pleaded not guilty to all charges against her, including two counts of human trafficking, organising prostitution, and money laundering. The prosecution alleges the two women trafficked vulnerable women between December 2018 and May 2019, moving them between towns including Portarlington, Thurles, and Tralee for sexual work. The State contends the women were controlled through debt bondage and threats. The trial, before Judge Patricia Ryan and a jury, is expected to last six weeks.