Cops forced entry into nine properties across Edinburgh and East Lothian.
20:41, 17 Sep 2025Updated 20:44, 17 Sep 2025
Windows and doors were smashed in by cops in riot gear(Image: Police Scotland)
A man and an elderly woman have been arrested as part of a major brothel crackdown across Edinburgh and East Lothian.
Cops forced entry into nine properties in the Cannongate, Tollcross, Leith Broughton, Dalry and Chesser areas of the capital on Tuesday, September 16. An address in the Prestonpans area of East Lothian was also stormed by officers in riot gear.
Following the raids seven people – six women and one man were all provided advice and support from specialist officers from the Victim Navigators and Prostitution Liaison Officers who attended addressers alongside officers from Police Scotland’s Public Protection Unit.
Police stormed addresses during the Tuesday morning raids(Image: Police Scotland)
Dramatic footage of the raids has been shared on Police Scotland Edinburgh’s social media. It shows units arrive before smashing in windows with specialist tools.
A 46-year-old man and a 70-year-old woman were arrested as part of the probe. A 36-year-old woman was also arrested in connection with drug offences. All three have since been released, pending further enquiries.
During the sting operation, a five-figure sum of cash was recovered along with small quantities of cocaine and cannabis, and evidence linking the addresses to prostitution.
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Cops raided properties as part of the brothel crackdown in the capital(Image: Police Scotland)
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.”