Five charged in Kensington and Chelsea 'trafficking' investigation

Five people have been charged following an investigation into alleged trafficking and a forced prostitution ring, police said today.

They will appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court today regarding the offences which are alleged to have taken place in Kensington and Chelsea, London.

Tatiana Shmyrova, 44, of Brompton Park Crescent, south west London, was charged with conspiracy to traffic persons into the United Kingdom for sexual exploitation and conspiracy to control prostitution for gain. She was also charged under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Irina Bespalova, 31, of Brompton Park Crescent, south west London, was charged with conspiracy to control prostitution for gain. She was also charged under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Michael Poole, 27, of Hazelwood Lane, north London, was charged with conspiracy to control prostitution for gain. He was also charged under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Natalia Cannon, 33, of Harbour Reach, The Boulevard, Imperial Wharf, was charged with conspiracy to traffic persons into the United Kingdom for sexual exploitation and conspiracy to control prostitution for gain. She was also charged under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Richard Gorecki, 36, of Caspian Walk, east London, was charged with conspiracy to control prostitution for gain. He was also charged under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

A 30-year-old woman and a 51-year-old man have been bailed to return pending further inquiries, the Metropolitan Police said.

PA