Sex Trafficking Gang Exposed in Multi-Town Brothel Crackdown
A ruthless gang operated a sick business model, advertising young women’s sexual services online and shuffling them from town to town. Their big selling point? “New in town” girls, with different aliases used weekly — “Bella” in Blackpool one week, “Kathy” in Whitehaven the next.
Neighbours Blow the Whistle on ‘Brothel Conveyor Belt’
It all came crashing down after Blackburn residents reported a house to the police, worried it was a brothel. Neighbours spoke of a constant stream of men arriving late at night or in the early hours, plus disturbing noises from inside. This tip-off launched an investigation revealing a sprawling brothel ring across Blackburn, Burnley, Preston, and even as far afield as Leeds, Bradford, Nottingham, and London.
Six Convicted as Court Clips Gang’s Wings
Six defendants pleaded guilty to exploiting women commercially. Despite victims not supporting the case, justice was served at Preston Crown Court between November 23-25. Jail terms ranged from 19 to 24 months.
“This gang used these women as nothing more than a commodity without any regard for their wellbeing or human rights,” said Det Sgt Stu Peall of Lancashire Constabulary’s Exploitation Team. “Lancashire Constabulary is committed to tackling exploitation of all kinds and today’s sentences are the result of hard work by officers determined to end modern slavery.”
Police Call on Public to Report Suspicious Activity
Det Sgt Peall thanked the community for their vital tip-offs and urged anyone suspecting prostitution activity to come forward: “We take all reports seriously and investigate thoroughly.”
Help is available for potential victims of human trafficking or slavery. You don’t need to go directly to police — charities offer confidential support, sometimes anonymously.
For advice and help, visit here.
Jailbirds Behind Bars
- Razvan Zidaru, 30, Blackburn – 24 months
- Valentina Cretu, 31, Blackburn – 24 months
- Valentin Ghelase, 35, Blackburn – 21 months
- Marius Serban, 39, Preston – 21 months
- Valentin Caraman, 38, Blackburn – 21 months
- Mihaela-Diana Barbieru, 32, Blackburn – 19 months
