Police bust illegal ‘pop-up’ brothel in CBD apartment
The Age
31 August 2016
Police have busted an illegal brothel operating in a Melbourne CBD apartment and arrested a 41-year-old woman.
Officers from the Sex Industry Coordination Unit seized cash, documents
and equipment from the Little Collins Street apartment late on
Wednesday morning.
A 41-year-old Melbourne woman was arrested and taken for questioning.
The SICU says its current focus is on illegal brothels operating out of apartment buildings.
"It is these types of unregulated businesses which often mean that
employees are working in exploitative conditions," said Senior Sergeant
Marilynn Ross.
"Standards of hygiene are incredibly poor and people coming in are subjecting themselves to health risks."
"pop-up" sex trade in apartments
In June, it emerged The Quay development in Sydney's Haymarket held a
thriving "pop-up" sex trade in apartments, which involved overseas
students .
This followed similar revelations about the Centra Park development - over five buildings - in Sydney's Chippendale.
"There is a licensed industry in Melbourne which provides a safe
environment for workers and clients," Senior Sergeant Ross said.
"If you are considering attending one of these unregulated premises be aware that you are also at risk of being charged."
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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