Suspected brothel in Chadderton raided after years of investigation, two arrested

Police raided a suspected brothel in Chadderton at dawn, arresting the 55-year-old owner and a woman on separate offences. A closure notice has been placed on the premises.

Dawn raid on Chadderton suspected brothel after years of intelligence work

Greater Manchester Police arrested two people and issued a closure notice on a suspected brothel in Chadderton following what officers described as years of intelligence gathering, theoldhamtimes.co.uk reports.

The premises, known as Silks on Broadway Parkgate, was raided at dawn. A full closure order is due to be decided by the court on Friday.

The 55-year-old owner arrived at the property while the raid was under way and was arrested on suspicion of controlling prostitution for gain. A woman in her forties, who was already on the premises when officers entered, was later arrested on suspicion of immigration-related offences and possession of Class A drugs. Safeguarding officers spoke to her before she was taken into custody.

Money, timesheets and other items were seized from the premises.

Police Sergeant Tom Layton said the concerns surrounding Silks had been raised by local residents and businesses "for a considerable period of time". "Today's action is the result of years of intelligence gathering and partnership working," he said. "By securing a closure notice, we have been able to immediately disrupt the activities taking place at the premises and prevent further harm, nuisance and criminality while legal proceedings continue."

Layton said premises suspected of facilitating criminality could have a "significant impact on those living and working nearby" and that such activity would not be tolerated.

Neighbourhood Inspector Amie Whitehead said controlling prostitution for gain was a serious offence frequently linked to the exploitation of vulnerable people. "Those involved can seek to profit from and control the lives of others for their own financial benefit, causing misery and harm in the process," she said. "Our priority is always to identify and safeguard those who may be vulnerable while pursuing those suspected of criminal offences."

Whitehead said intelligence provided by residents and businesses had been "instrumental in building the wider picture" that allowed officers to act. She urged anyone with concerns about similar activity, or who believed someone was being exploited, to contact police. "Every piece of information helps us protect vulnerable people and bring offenders to justice," she added.

Whitehead also reiterated the force's commitment to ensuring Oldham remained safe for residents, businesses and visitors.

Source: Google News UK — Crime (en)