Ten people arrested following suspected exploitation of sex workers investigation on Newcastle's Leazes Park Road
Ten people have been arrested as part of investigation into suspected exploitation of sex workers at a Newcastle city centre property.
On the morning of Thursday, May 8, Northumbria Police claims officers executed multiple warrants in a building on Leazes Park Road.
The planned activity followed intelligence around suspected human trafficking and modern slavery offences at a premises and adjoining residential flats.
Specialist officers from the Force’s Serious Organised Crime (SOC) Exploitation Team were present during the operation.
They was supported by North East Regional Organised Crime Unit, Newcastle City Council and Immigration Enforcement.
Ten people were arrested on the day including four men – aged 23, 30, 34 and 66 – and two women – aged 38 and 57 – on suspicion of controlling prostitution for gain.
A 27-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon. They have since been released on police bail, pending further enquiries.
Three women – aged 22, 34 and 37 – were also arrested for immigration offences.
Ten women present during the activity were safeguarded and offered appropriate support.
Other partners who assisted included NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, Changing Lives, Red Cross and support services.
Detective Inspector Mal Stratton of Northumbria Police said: “This was a successful operation, with ten people arrested and potential victims safeguarded.
“The activity followed recent intelligence of suspicious activity at the property, and we acted on those concerns as soon as possible.
“Our investigation remains very much ongoing, and we’d like to thank our partners involved both on the ground and behind the scenes for their continued support.
“Enquiries remain ongoing at the scene, and officers are patrolling the area to offer reassurance to the wider public.”
Det Insp Stratton added: “Our message is that if something doesn’t look right then it probably isn’t right, and we would encourage those with concerns to reach out to police.“Often people don’t realise they are victims of exploitation and slavery – so it’s vitally important to remain alert and vigilant in our communities.”
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