McDonalds workers in Malaysia employed through labour supply companies have claimed that they have been cheated out of money and have been exploited, according to an investigation by the Guardian.

The workers, who come from Nepal, allege they were subjected to months and in some cases years, of exploitation by Human Connection HR, a labour supply company contracted by McDonald’s in Malaysia to provide workers to its restaurants in Kuala Lumpur. They have also claimed that they were charged fees and had their passports confiscated.

McDonald’s Malaysia said in an email that it had ended its contract with Human Connection.

“At McDonald’s Malaysia, the welfare of staff is a top priority,” said the company. “Earlier this year, we became aware of certain circumstances relating to services provided by Human Connection HR which were not in compliance with our standards. As a result, we have terminated our contract with them.”