Women who have testified as complainants in the Da Vinci investigation // Photo: Swedish Police
Swedish authorities have launched investigations into the sex trade at around 1,600 Thai salons in Sweden. High-profile individuals, including a TV4 personality, face scrutiny after admitting to spending over 40,000 kronor on sexual services at these establishments.
Police conducted the “Da Vinci” investigation, which uncovered sex purchases and led to significant concern over salon operations. In one incident, officers observed a woman on the Stadium subway platform in Stockholm shortly before 10 PM. She was allegedly on her way back from a salon. Investigators later found a bag filled with used condoms near her.
Of the salons visited by the TV4 figure, 16 of the 18 still operate, despite growing concerns about the legality of their services. Reports indicate that about 80% of the 2,000 Thai salons in Sweden engage in sex work. While selling sex is legal in Sweden, proving related offenses, such as pimping or human trafficking, is challenging for law enforcement.
A former masseuse at one salon noted that sexual services often occur discreetly. Anna Sander from Talita, an organization supporting victims of sex trafficking, highlighted the exploitation these women face. Many endure conditions similar to slavery.
Screenshots from users reviews on Flashback
Scared” Woman Spoke Up: “Bad Gut Feeling”
In October 2021, two representatives from the organization Realstars, which works to combat trafficking, visited the Östermalm salon central to Operation Da Vinci.
“After a while, she stepped forward, and it turned out she was only wearing a thin tank top/short dress, exposing most of her body, including her buttocks and breasts, and she was heavily made up,” Realstars wrote in an email to the police. “Throughout the conversation, she appeared anxious, and we had a very bad gut feeling.”
In the background sat a man in his 70s, whom Realstars described as “well-known in the Thai community.” He would later be revealed as a pimp and sentenced to two and a half years in prison for aggravated pimping. During the investigation, police found luxury items, such as Chanel bags, believed to have been purchased with money from the brothel.
Screenshots from users reviews on Flashback
More men in Sweden buys sex
Data on sex purchases at Thai salons remains limited. However, reported offenses have risen sharply, from 607 in 2014 to 1,513 last year. A Public Health Agency study found that nearly one in ten men admitted to buying sex.
Some men express troubling attitudes in online reviews on forums like Flashback. One buyer laughed at a woman’s request for more money to pay her rent.
The Da Vinci investigation linked several people to these activities, including Patrick Sommerlath, a royal family relative. He avoided prosecution due to the statute of limitations. A CEO associated with the salons received a conviction after initially being acquitted for sex purchase charges.
The trial for the TV4 personality involved in these scandals will take place in March next year. The investigation reflects growing scrutiny of Sweden’s sex trade and the need for effective measures against exploitation. Authorities continue to gather evidence as public awareness of this issue rises.
Source: Expressen