Two arrested over alleged brothel keeping and seven people safeguarded

Two people have been arrested in connection with alleged brothel keeping and seven people have been safeguarded following a police operation in Edinburgh and East Lothian.

Officers executed warrants at nine properties in the Canongate, Tollcross, Leith, Broughton, Dalry and Chesser areas of Edinburgh and the Prestonpans area of East Lothian on Tuesday.

Police said a 46-year-old man and a 70-year-old woman were arrested as part of the investigation into alleged brothel keeping, while a 36-year-old woman was arrested in connection with drug offences.

All three have since been released, pending further inquiries.

Police Scotland said six women and one man were given safeguarding advice.

They were also offered support from the force’s specially trained victim navigators and prostitution liaison officers who went to the addresses, alongside officers from the police public protection unit.

A five-figure sum of cash and small quantities of cocaine and cannabis were also recovered during the operation.

Detective Chief Inspector Jonny Wright said: “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.”