Illegal Gold Coast escort service shut down, 25 arrested

A major operation has shut down an unlawful prostitution ring, with police alleging the ring was operating under the facade of a legitimate business.

A major operation has shut down an unlawful prostitution ring, arresting 25 people, including the alleged head of the illegal escort agency.

The illegal escort agency had been allegedly operating on the Gold Coast, with police arresting a 47-year-old man, who they will allege was the business owner.

Police have shut down an illegal escort service operating on the Gold Coast

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In a statement, police said Operation Romeo Manoeuvre had been running since March 2019 to “disrupt and dismantle networks profiting from illegal prostitution activities.”

Police raided the home of the 47-year-old Coomera man, charging him with offences including carrying on the business of providing unlawful prostitution.

It will be alleged during the raid officers found several mobile phones with contact numbers used in advertising for prostitution services, two vehicles used for transportation, a computer with software for booking appointments, along with a range of business documents.

Police will allege the business was operating under the facade of a legitimate business, with documentation uncovered including employment contracts and worksheets.

Police have shut down an illegal escort service operating on the Gold Coast.

Senior Sergeant Kevin Groenhuijzen said the investigation outcome was significant as senior figures in the business model had been apprehended.

“This result highlights how we are continuing to target and apprehend those who operate outside of the law in Queensland. Dismantling this operation was significant and sends a clear message of our commitment to targeting these offenders,” he said.

All 25 persons charged will appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court today on a range of charges.

More information to come.