Enfield Independent

Nine people arrested following brothel raids

NINE people have been arrested following a series of raids on north and east London brothels.
The Metropolitan Police's Human Exploitation and Organised Crime Command arrested six women and a man on suspicion of controlling a brothel in the early hours of yesterday morning.
The premises in College Close, Edmonton, Seven Sisters Road and Tottenham High Road have now been closed down.
A further two men, believed to have been customers of the brothels, were arrested at the premises on suspicion of immigration offences and possession of an offensive weapon.
Officers also rescued 19 women believed to be victims of sexual exploitation and trafficking.
The women have all been provided with support and referred to partner organisations for further help.
All nine arrested have been taken to a central London police station for questioning.
DI Kevin Hyland, from the Human Exploitation and Organised Crime Command, said: "Today's arrests are the culmination of a long-running covert operation to identify a network of brothel premises and those suspected of running them.
"Women who are made to work as prostitutes face a horrendous ordeal on a daily basis.
"We will do all we can to ensure their safety."
The investigation has also identified alleged criminal proceeds that have been transferred to overseas bank accounts.
A money laundering investigation is underway.