Two brothels busted in Oldham and closed down by GMP

The closure orders were granted by Tameside Magistrates’ Court on 29 July 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 on Balfour Street and Miriam Street, 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.

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.

Miriam Street, Failsworth (Image: Google)

“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 residents who came forward with information. Community intelligence is vital in helping us identify and address this type of offending.”

On Monday 27 July, 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 28 July, 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.