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Two brothels uncovered in Oldham after inflicting ‘important misery’ to neighbours

Greater Manchester Police have shut down two brothels in Oldham after activity caused ‘significant distress’ to neighbours as four people have been arrested over two days

Oldham Brothels

Greater Manchester Police have shut down two brothels in Oldham(Image: Manchester Evening News)

Police have uncovered two brothels in the UK after the activity was causing ‘significant distress’ to neighbours as four people have been arrested.

Closure orders have been issued for properties on Balfour Street and Miriam Street in Oldham after officers attended the houses on July 27 and July 28.

Reports of suspicious activity at the tow properties was made by residents, councillors and partner agencies. According to police, they witnessed men arriving day and night, only staying for a short period of time before suddenly leaving.

Greater Manchester Police said the activity had caused ‘significant distress’ to neighbours, reports the Manchester Evening News. On July 27, neighbourhood officers team attended an address on Balfour Street where they found a brothel and a man trying to flee the property.

Police

Four people have been arrested by police(Image: Manchester Evening News)

The man attempted to exit via the rear of the house but was quickly detained by officers. Two people were arrested on suspicion of controlling prostitution for gain.

A 48-hour closure notice was authorised which, following an application to the court, turned into a three-month closure order being granted.

Officers then attended an address on Miriam Street on the evening of July 28 where two women were arrested and then bailed.

A 48-hour closure notice was authorised at the property, and again a three-month closure order being granted by the court.

It is now a criminal offence to enter or remain in either property during the period of the closure orders as investigations continue.

Miriam Street in Oldham

Officers also attended an address on Miriam Street (Image: Manchester Evening News)

Neighbourhood Inspector for Oldham South & West, Amie Whitehead, said: “We’re committed to addressing the issues that matter most to residents, and these closure orders show that we will act on information provided by our communities.

“These two premises had a significant impact on people living nearby, with men attending the addresses throughout the day and night and loitering outside neighbouring homes while waiting to enter.

“Residents told us this behaviour was causing considerable distress within the community and affecting their quality of life.

“We’ve responded to reports, worked with partners and gathered evidence to take enforcement action, and have now secured closure orders to prevent further criminality and protect the local community.

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“I would like to thank residents who came forward with information. Community intelligence is vital in helping us identify and address this type of offending.”

Anyone with information about suspected criminal activity in their area is encouraged to report it to GMP via 101, online, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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