Pin Point Issue 38 - 13th September 2024

Pop-Up Brothels in holiday lettings and private rentals - please report suspicious activity.

Devon and Cornwall Police ask all persons in the community to look at the list below, and report if you see it, hear it or are told about it.

What signs should I look out for?

Property hosts, landlords and agents have an important part to play in helping us to identify potential exploitation and it is your responsibility to ensure that any suspicious activity within your properties is reported.

Some of the signs that may indicate a property is being used as pop-up brothel include (not exhaustive):

• Multiple women staying under one roof or a large number of women regularly being brought to and taken from the property
• Occupants may not be the people who initially booked the property or may change regularly during the stay
• Different men calling at the property (both day and night) and staying for only a short period of time
• Property windows blacked out or curtains constantly closed
• Sudden increase in residential waste at a property or more waste than would be expected for the number of tenants
• Tenant may request to pay in cash or ask to make arrangements offline
• Occupants may lack personal effects or identification documents
• Occupants may appear to be malnourished, unkempt or withdrawn
• Occupants may be kept isolated and seem to be under the control or influence of others
• Occupants may avoid eye contact, appear frightened or be hesitant to meet in person to collect
  property keys

How should I report it?

Take action by dialling 101 (or 999 if you believe there is a crime in action) or alerting police who may be on patrol nearby.

You can also report via Police Home Contact us | Police.uk (www.police.uk).

If you are a partner agency, please fill in the Community Partnership Intel form and make reports, with as much detail as possible including, times, descriptions, locations, and vehicle registration details. Please let us know if there is any CCTV coverage, too.

Reports can also be made anonymously through Crimestoppers 0800 555 111

Is there a crime taking place right now? If so, please call 999. Call 101 for non-emergency enquiries.
Devon and Cornwall Police