Two men found to be involved in setting up a brothel in Southampton have avoided jail.

Ting Di Lin, 51, and Mehmed Mehmed, 29, were sentenced today at Southampton Crown Court following an investigation into human trafficking and prostitution offences by the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit.

Between May and July 2019, Lin was involved in the setting up and running of a brothel in Southampton as well as arranging the lease and furnishing of the property.

He was also involved in arranging travel for sex workers for the purpose of offering sexual services which were advertised online, the court was told.

The 51-year-old was arrested in July 2019 and found in possession of more than £5,000 in cash. He later admitted to this being criminal property.

Meanwhile, Mehmed allowed his bank accounts to be used to move money made from running the brothel as well as for personal gain.

READ MORE: Two face charges related to prostitution and human trafficking

Ting Di Lin, of Lee Church Street, Lewisham was sentenced to 15 months’ imprisonment suspended for 18 months and must complete 15 sessions of rehabilitation work.

Mehmed, of Angus Street, Cardiff, was sentenced to nine months’ imprisonment suspended for 18 months and must complete 130 hours of unpaid work.

The 29-year-old previously pleaded guilty to acquiring criminal property.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Adam Knight, of SEROCU, said: “Lin attempted to exploit vulnerable women for financial gain and Mehmed profited from allowing his bank accounts to be used to process the money made by the brothel. 

“They have both been sentenced as a result of our investigation.

“SEROCU remains committed to tackling exploitation and bringing to justice those who prey on the vulnerable.”