The fate of the 13 Indian nationals, arrested in relation to the alleged human trafficking scam last month, now lies in the hands of the courts.

Director of Immigration, Nemani Vuniwaqa confirms that the 13 individuals are now being housed in a detention center at an undisclosed location.

Vuniwaqa said the decision on whether they will be deported will be decided by the courts once they testify in the case which is now before the courts.

Three local businessmen, two Customs Officials and an Immigration Officer have been charged in relation to the alleged human trafficking scam uncovered last month.

The Immigration Department has also suspended seven primary line staff pending investigations.

The Indian Nationals were allegedly lured into Fiji on promises for jobs in Fiji, Australia and New Zealand in return for large sums of money.