Public urged to stay vigilant as 10 arrests made following alleged sex work exploitation raid

On Tuesday afternoon Northumbria Police confirmed ten arrests had been made following an incident in Leazes Park Road in the centre of Newcastle.

This was the culmination of police activity in the area over the weekend with the raid taking place on Thursday, May 8.

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.

Speaking following the action and arrests, 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.”

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“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.”

“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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