14 people were found inside a brothel in Reede Road (credit: Google Maps)
They found 14 people, including four women working as sex workers, inside the property in Reede Road on Thursday, 12 November.
The police arrested one person at the scene and all of the women were taken away for questioning to determine if they are victims of trafficking and modern day slavery.
However, officers were left satisfied with the women’s claims that they are self-employed and “happy with the nature of their job”.
“We won’t stand for people setting up illegal establishments in this borough especially during the coronavirus pandemic and we will shut them down,” said Councillor, Margaret Mullane.
“I would like to thank the residents for bringing this to our attention and will like to encourage others to do so anonymously if they’re concerned about something. Working together, and with your help, we can catch perpetrators such as this.”
The property was an unlicensed House of Multiple Occupation which had been sublet by the owners.
Both police and the council are continuing to investigating the case and any offences identified will be prosecuted.
Residents who have any concerns about any such illegal activities should please contact the council in confidence on 020 8215 3000.
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Tags: Dagenham, Barking and Dagenham