London Couple Jailed for Running Sex Trafficking Ring
A Romanian husband and wife team have been slammed with hefty jail sentences for exploiting women in London’s sex trade. Nicusor Gheorghe, 34, and his wife Rodica, 33, ran a ruthless operation trafficking women from Romania and forcing them into prostitution across the capital.
Brutal Exploitation Exposed After Years of Investigation
Detective Sergeant Chris Weatherstone from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command said the lengthy probe smashed an organised crime group profiting from modern slavery. He praised the victims’ courage for giving evidence that convicted the pair. “Anyone thinking of exploiting others for profit should expect ruthless investigation and prosecution,” Weatherstone warned.
Shock Details Revealed in Court
- Nicusor Gheorghe was sentenced to 15 years for multiple charges including two rapes, eight counts of human trafficking, and controlling prostitution for gain.
- Rodica Gheorghe received five years for human trafficking and controlling prostitution.
The Gheorghes lured women, mostly from Romania, promising work and accommodation in the UK. Victims were trapped, forced into sex work, often working gruelling hours and handing over most of their earnings. One victim was locked into a brothel in Barking, forced to see up to 15 men nightly and paid less than £20 a week after the couple took their cut. She was even raped by Nicusor, who threatened harm to her family.
Victims Finally Get Justice – But The Fight Continues
The Met worked closely with Romanian police, rescuing women and gathering evidence over years. Rodica was arrested after being extradited from Romania. Detective Constable Lore Hancock, a Romanian herself, highlighted the tragic cycle of poverty pushing women into exploitation. She said the victims now receive support from charities, including counselling and housing.
The police urge Londoners to stay vigilant against modern slavery, which hides in plain sight—from sex trafficking to forced labour in car washes and nail bars. If you suspect someone is a victim, help is just a call away.
Spot It, Report It, Stop It
- Call The Salvation Army’s 24/7 confidential helpline: 0800 808 3733
- Contact Modern Slavery Helpline: 08000 121 700
- Report online or to police at www.met.police.uk or phone 101 (999 for emergencies)
- Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously: 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org
