Brothel keeping arrests made as police raid nine properties in Edinburgh and East Lothian

A number of arrests have been made in connection with brothel keeping after police raided nine properties across Edinburgh and East Lothian.

Two people have been arrested and seven people safeguarded following raids in the Cannongate, Tollcross, Leith, Broughton, Dalry, and Chesser areas of Edinburgh on Tuesday.

A raid was also conducted in the Prestonpans area of East Lothian.

A 46-year-old man and a 70-year-old woman were arrested as part of the investigation.

A 36-year-old woman was also arrested in connection with drug offences.

All three have since been released, pending further enquiries.

Six women and one man, all foreign nationals, were provided with safeguarding advice and support by specialist officers.

A four-figure sum of cash was also recovered along with small quantities of cocaine and cannabis, and evidence linking the addresses to prostitution.

Detective chief inspector Jonny Wright said: “Prostitution brings a significant threat of risk and harm to people and communities.

“Our approach focuses on the safety and welfare of those involved and in identifying either individual perpetrators or crime gangs who pose a threat.

“We work closely with our local and national partners to engage with people and signpost them to available support, hopefully reducing the risk of violence.

“This is about safer communities and supported victims, while building trust and confidence in policing. And it’s about tackling violence against women and girls in all its forms.

“I would encourage anyone who has experienced abuse or exploitation to make a report by calling Police Scotland on 101, or anonymously via Crimestoppers.”