Police arrest one man and ‘offer support’ to dozens of women after raids on brothels across London
- Met Police made welfare checks at 18 addresses in nine boroughs across London
- Offered support to 46 women, five of them suspected victims of modern slavery
- A 36-year-old Hungarian national was arrested on suspicion of controlling prostitution
A man has been arrested after police swooped on a number of London brothels as part of a crackdown on sexual exploitation.
Met Police have confirmed they visited 18 addresses in nine boroughs across London identified as brothels last week to carry out welfare checks.
Officers spoke to a total of 46 women at the properties, five of which were identified as potential victims of modern slavery.
The women were found to be from the UK, Brazil, Bulgaria, China, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland and Romania.
One man, a 36-year-old Hungarian national, was arrested on December 3 on suspicion of controlling prostitution.
Met Police have confirmed they visited 18 addresses in nine boroughs across London identified as brothels last week to carry out welfare checks
He was taken to a north London police station where he was interviewed and released under investigation.
The brothels were located in the boroughs of Hounslow, Ealing, Hillingdon, Merton, Newham, Enfield, Haringey, Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster.
Scotland Yard today warned that many victims of sexual exploitation do not see themselves as potential victims, but have been coerced into it to make money for an organised crime network.
They added that the women are often told not to trust the police and British authorities, and struggle to seek help because of limited English language skills.
Detective Chief Inspector Helen Barling, from the Specialist Crime Command, said: ‘This operation has been organised to safeguard the most vulnerable, who are often unseen by society. Officers offered advice and support to ensure the women are aware they are not alone and have taken action where necessary.
‘We know that in many cases females providing sexual services have travelled from overseas, often fleeing poverty, lured by the promise of a well-paid job in the UK.
Officers spoke to a total of 46 women at the properties, five of which were identified as potential victims of modern slavery.
‘However, upon arrival the situation couldn’t be more different. Their exploiters take their ID documents and they end up working in brothels – sometimes forced to.
‘They can also end up in debt bondage where they owe money that they will never be able to repay to people they had trusted.
‘Physical and mental abuse is common, as are threats of violence against family members at home.
‘The public have an important role to play in recognising and reporting modern slavery. If you suspect someone may be a victim of modern slavery, report it. You will always be taken seriously and protection and support is available.’
You can report a suspicion or seek advice through the Modern Slavery Helpline confidentially on 08000 121 700.
Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.