Paisley police charge two women with human trafficking and brothel keeping

Two women have been charged with human trafficking and brothel keeping after three properties were raided by police in Paisley on Thursday.

The intelligence-led operation was carried out alongside the Home Office Immigration Enforcement team with officers attending the addresses in Scotland’s largest town on September 26.

Police apprehended and charged two women, aged 38 and 44, in connection with human trafficking, brothel keeping and serious and organised crime offences.

The arrests follow an extensive investigation into the alleged illicit activity taking place at premises in the Abercorn Street area of Paisley.

Detective sergeant Jason Buxton, of the Renfrewshire and Inverclyde Public Protection Pro Active Unit, said: “We are committed to working with our partners to pursue those involved in this type of criminality, with strong focus on safeguarding individuals who may be at risk of exploitation.

“This type of criminality can have long lasting and detrimental effects on people who are exploited whilst those who orchestrate this activity often benefit from the proceeds of this this exploitative abuse.

“Information from people within our communities is key to helping us identify those involved.

“I would urge anyone with information or concerns about exploitation of any kind, to contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”