Couple Convicted in Shocking Human Trafficking and Prostitution Ring
Wai Tsang, 52, and Wen Pan, 40, of St Mary’s Terrace, Westminster, were found guilty on Thursday 26 November after a five-week trial at Isleworth Crown Court. They were convicted of conspiracy to commit human trafficking, controlling prostitution for financial gain, and possession of criminal property. Pan faced additional charges of possessing Class A drugs with intent to supply.
The sentencing is scheduled for 22 January 2021.
Victim Trafficked from China and Forced into Sex Work
In July 2019, a woman in her 30s reported to Kensington Police Station that she had been trafficked from China to the UK in December 2015 and forced into prostitution. She was sent to settle her husband’s gambling debts, only to be sold by him upon arrival.
After landing at Heathrow Airport, the victim was met by her husband’s friend who raped her and seized her travel documents. She was then controlled by Wai Tsang and Wen Pan, known to her as “Big Brother” and “Mimi,” and forced to service up to 10 clients a day across multiple locations.
Her movements were strictly controlled. Tsang drove her to clients’ homes and hotel rooms, while Pan arranged bookings via messaging apps. Prices ranged from £120 to £230 per appointment, with all earnings handed over to Tsang.
Terror, Violence, and Drug Dealing on the Victim
The victim was also coerced into selling cocaine and crystal meth to clients. After refusing to take drugs with a client, Pan violently assaulted her, pulling her hair and kicking her. She was repeatedly threatened that both she and her family would be killed if she tried to escape.
Fear kept her trapped for years. It was only in 2019 that she found the courage to reach out to police and expose the horror.
Major Police Operation Exposes Traffickers’ Network
Following the victim’s report, police launched Operation Laius, deploying undercover officers to gather evidence. Tsang was arrested in Waterloo after transporting a woman from High Street Kensington. Officers found passports, underwear, and boxes of condoms in his car.
Pan attempted to evade police by refusing entry and trying to throw a basket of 21 mobile phones out a window at their home. A search revealed 74 phones, thousands of condoms, dozens of revealing outfits, passports, and Class A drugs along with scales.
Warrants executed at multiple locations uncovered ties between the couple, their properties, and payments linked to sex services and taxis.
Police Praise Victim’s Bravery and Urge Public Vigilance
PC Sam Bhangu, Sexual Exploitation Team: “Tsang and Pan had no regard for the women they controlled, treating them as objects for personal gain. The victim showed immense bravery in reporting these crimes and assisting with this investigation, which led to justice today. She endured violence and threats for years but finally broke free.”
Detective Constable Stu Higgs: “We work relentlessly with partners to dismantle trafficking networks. The public plays a vital role by spotting signs of modern slavery and reporting suspicions. If you think someone might be a victim, speak up — you will be taken seriously and support is available.”
