Sites on the town’s Balfour Street and Miriam Street were closed down by officers after reports of men loitering while waiting to enter
Brothels in Greater Manchester causing “significant distress” to neighbours have been shut by police after reports of men loitering outside.
Police raided properties in Balfour Street and Miriam Street, Oldham, arresting four people and detaining one man as he tried to run from one of the addresses. Greater Manchester Police had received reports from residents and councillors about “suspicious activity” at the two addresses.
These included concerns about men arriving throughout the day and night, staying for short periods of time and then leaving. This caused “significant distress” to those living nearby, the police said.
On July 27, officers attended the property on Balfour Street in relation to a “concern for welfare”. A brothel was found to be operating from the address and one man tried to flee through the rear of the property before he was detained.
Two people were arrested on suspicion of controlling prostitution for gain. The next day, officers executed a warrant at the Miriam Street address following reports from the local community.
Two women were arrested and bailed as an investigation remains ongoing. In both cases, a 48-hour closure notice was authorised, followed by a three-month closure order.
The orders were granted by Tameside Magistrates’ Court on July 29. It is a criminal offence to enter or remain in either of the two properties during the three-month period.
Neighbourhood Inspector for Oldham South and West, Amie Whitehead, said: “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.” Insp Whitehead said the orders will prevent further criminality in the area, protecting the local community.
