Pair Arrested For Controlling Prostitution

Two men have been arrested on suspicion of a range of human trafficking offences in Ballymena, Co Antrim.

The pair were detained on Tuesday 03 December after detectives from the PSNI's Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Unit searched properties in Belfast and Ballymena.

It follows the arrest of five men last week on suspicion of paying for sexual services.

On Tuesday, a 33 year-old was detained on suspicion of three counts of human trafficking for sexual exploitation, controlling prostitution for gain, converting criminal property and a number of motoring offences.

An 18 year-old was also arrested on suspicion of money laundering and controlling prostitution.

It comes as part of a proactive police investigation into human trafficking for sexual exploitation in Northern Ireland. A file on the five earlier arrests is being prepared for the Public Prosecution Service.

Detective Inspector Mark Bell said: "Sexual exploitation is often an unseen crime - often victims are transported to clients' properties so there may not be the obvious case of men coming and going to the one property.

"Furthermore, many victims can be afraid to speak out or may be being held captive. However, for some people who are subject to this kind of exploitation, they may not think of themselves as victims.

"They may be vulnerable and have been manipulated into having sex for money, often controlled and coerced into passing over some of the profits to another person who ultimately lines their pockets as a result of the exploitation."

Police have appealed for victims to come forward. Detective Inspector Bell continued: "I want you to get the help and support that you need. Perhaps you are in this position but don't think that you are being exploited. I'd urge you to have a think about the people around you if there is anyone who is pushing you in a certain direction or financially benefiting from your activities, please make contact with police."

Members of the public are also reminded of the signs to look out for, especially if they have concerns about someone who is being put under pressure to provide services and made to feel like they have no choice.

Victims may keep antisocial hours and be driven around by someone they won't let you get to know. There may also be obvious signs, such as a person having no access to their money.

While the sale of sex in itself is not a crime in Northern Ireland, it is a criminal offence to purchase.

Detective Inspector Bell said: "I want to make it very clear- if you are paying for sexual services, you are committing a crime. Do you really want to be getting a knock on the door from police, perhaps having to explain to family and friends why you have been arrested?

"I want to encourage anyone who purchases sex to think of the consequences. Furthermore, you cannot be sure that the person providing the services has not been forced to or trafficked to make a profit for the person controlling them.

"Unlike drugs or firearms which are only bought or sold once, a victim can be sexually exploited over and over again, which could generate a continuous source of income for criminals."

Anyone with concerns about trafficking can call 999 in an emergency or 101 if not. There's also a Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700.



(JG/CM)