Major Brothel Bust Across Four UK Towns Seizes 70 Phones and Cash Stash
On Thursday 19 August 2021, police launched a dramatic crackdown with coordinated raids in Cambridge, Croydon, Dagenham, and Reading. The swoops uncovered a trove of evidence linked to suspected brothel operations.
Massive Haul Seized in Raids
Officers confiscated over 70 mobile phones, three cars, and thousands of pounds in unexplained cash during the operation. The phones are believed to have been used to run brothels not only in Kent but farther afield.
Four Arrested Amid Growing Investigation
The swoops led to the arrest of four suspects: a 40-year-old woman from Cambridge, a 26-year-old woman from Croydon, and two men aged 36 and 37 from Cambridge and Dagenham.
- Lina Wang, 40, of Linton, and Chung Fu Wang, 37, of Dagenham, face charges of conspiracy to control prostitution for gain. Lina Wang also faces money laundering charges.
- Both appeared at Medway Magistrates’ Court on 20 August and were remanded in custody. Their next hearing is at Maidstone Crown Court on 17 September.
- The other two suspects remain uncharged but under active investigation.
Police Target Organised Crime Behind Brothels
“Modern slavery is a hidden crime and victims rarely come forward, making proactive operations essential,” said Detective Sergeant Stacey Chapman from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate.
“Exploitation of sex workers is often tied to organised national and international crime networks involved in human trafficking, drugs, and money laundering. Safeguarding vulnerable victims is at the heart of our work.”
Officers continue working with partner organisations and charities to shut down illegal brothels and protect those being exploited in the sex trade.
