Suspended sentences have been given to and penalties imposed on seven princesses from Abu Dhabi on charges of human trafficking and degrading treatment to their servants in Brussels.

The princesses belong to the royal family of Abu Dhabi, Al Nahyan, Reuters reports.

The investigation into the case was launched 10 years ago, when one of the maids ran out of the hotel and complained to the police.  

On Friday, the court made a judgment, pursuant to which the princesses have received 15 months of suspended sentences. They were justified with regard to cruel treatment but, nevertheless, have to pay a penalty in the amount of 165,000 euro.

The princesses didn’t appear for trial.