Landlords and managing agents are being warned by police that organised crime groups may be using their properties to establish temporary brothels. These groups reportedly use fraudulent documents to secure accommodation where vulnerable individuals could be exploited.
Officers in Lincolnshire stated that this warning follows reports of some landlords and managing agents letting properties to these groups, either unknowingly or without sufficient checks. Some of the sex workers involved may have been trafficked into the country.
PC Dan Thompson from Lincolnshire’s intelligence team urged the public to report any suspected brothels, stating that all information, no matter how small, helps build a bigger picture. Police are prioritising the identification and safeguarding of vulnerable people who may be victims of exploitation, trafficking, or modern slavery.
Landlords and letting agents are advised to conduct thorough identity and address checks before letting properties. They should also take reasonable steps to understand who is occupying the accommodation and how it is being used.