Amazon used ‘neo-Nazi’ guards to control workers in German factory scandal

Published: 15 February, 2013, 18:23

Internet giant Amazon has been accused of abusing thousands of foreign workers in its German warehouses. An investigation claimed the company employed guards who may have neo-Nazi links, who intimidated and bullied temporary staff across Germany.

A documentary filmed by Germany’s ARD television channel shed light on the conditions in Amazon’s packing and distribution centers during the Christmas rush, when thousands of extra workers are brought in to cope with rising demand.

A number of immigrant workers featured in the film testified about the treatment they were subjected to by security guards the company employed to “keep the order.”

The film depicts guards in military-style uniforms patrolling the hostels and other budget accommodations housing the mostly foreign workforce. Employees described the atmosphere of fear and intimidation they said the guards incited.

“They tell us they are the police here,” a Spanish woman stressed in the film. Another worker told ARD that she had been intimidated into leaving the chalet where she was living with five others for drying her clothes on a radiator. 

Photographic evidence showed that the guards repeatedly conducted searches of workers’ quarters without any prior warning. 

The firm that supplied the security guards to Amazon is known as HESS Security.  The documentary depicts some of the guards wearing the Thor Steinar clothing brand, which is synonymous with right-wing groups in Germany.

Amazon emphasized that it “tolerates no discrimination or intimidation," and would thoroughly investigate all claims.“Even though the security company wasn't hired by Amazon we are of course examining the allegations… and will take appropriate measures immediately,” an Amazon spokesperson said in an interview with AP.