Three-month closure orders secured for two Oldham brothels

Four people have been arrested after officers identified two addresses being used as brothels.

The two properties in Oldham have been ordered to close for three months. The closure orders were granted by Tameside Magistrates' Court on July 29, 2026 following enforcement action by Greater Manchester Police's Oldham neighbourhood teams working in collaboration with GMP’s legal team. 

Officers received information from residents, councillors and partner agencies regarding suspicious activity linked to the addresses, leading to investigations by neighbourhood teams. Concerns included men arriving throughout the day and night, staying for short periods of time before leaving again and causing significant distress to those living nearby. 

On Monday, July 27, neighbourhood officers attended an address on Balfour Street, Oldham, in relation to a concern for welfare. Upon entering the property, officers identified a brothel operating at the address. 
One man fled from the rear of the property but was subsequently detained. Two people were arrested on suspicion of controlling prostitution for gain. 

A 48-hour closure notice was authorised and following an application to the court, a three-month closure order has now been granted. 

On the evening of Tuesday, July 28, officers from the Oldham South Neighbourhood Team executed a Section 8 PACE warrant at an address on Miriam Street following reports from the local community. 
During the operation, two women were arrested and bailed as the investigation continues. 

A 48-hour closure notice was authorised at the property and a three-month closure order has now been granted by the court. 

It is now a criminal offence to enter or remain in either property during the period of the closure orders. 

Neighbourhood Inspector for Oldham South & West, Amie Whitehead, said: "We're committed to addressing the issues that matter most to residents, and these closure orders show that we will act on information provided by our communities. 

"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. 

"We've responded to reports, worked with partners and gathered evidence to take enforcement action, and have now secured closure orders to prevent further criminality and protect the local community. 

"I would like to thank the residents who came forward with information. Community intelligence is vital in helping us identify and address this type of offending." 

Anyone with information about suspected criminal activity in their area is encouraged to report it to GMP via 101, online, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.