A PROPERTY in Slough was among nine raided as part of a crackdown on suspected brothels.

Warwickshire Police and West Mercia Police have led a multi-force operation aimed at disrupting and dismantling an organised crime group operating throughout the UK, with properties in Warwickshire, Reading, Slough, Nottingham, Wolverhampton, London and Torquay raided between Tuesday (23/9) and yesterday (Thursday).

The action included the search of nine properties and the arrests of 15 suspects on suspicion of conspiracy to manage and control brothels.

A 63-year-old woman was arrested in Vicarage Way, Colnbrook, and has been released on bail until February 3.

Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Ally Wright from Warwickshire Police, who led the investigation said: “Prostitution of this type is a sophisticated and organised crime and there could be a number of vulnerable victims, many of whom may have been trafficked into the UK illegally and made to work in the brothels to pay off their debt to the traffickers - amounting to modern slavery.

"In some instances the organised crime groups may threaten and intimidate many of the women working in the brothels who in turn may have a fear of cooperating with police and law enforcement agencies.

"The investigation team worked with the National Crime Agency and The British Red Cross and ensured that victims had access to interpreters and were treated sensitively and with compassion.” DCI Wright added: “The actions this week are the latest in a coordinated police operation throughout the UK targeting ruthless organised crime groups that use and abuse vulnerable women to make substantial profits.

"Searches carried out this week recovered a significant number of phones, cash and banking materials which will allow officers to examine the structure and hierarchy of this organised crime group.

"We urge any potential victims to come forward so we can offer them the best possible protection and support and police will continue to work with partner agencies to disrupt and dismantle these groups.” Anyone who has any information should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A campaign has been launched which aims to encourage the public to identify the signs and report on modern slavery by calling a new national helpline – 0800 0121 700 or via the website www.modernslavery.co.uk