Two Birmingham 'Massage Parlours' Exposed as Brothels in Court Case
Two businesses operating as brothels while masquerading as massage parlours have been named in court proceedings. They were identified as Rainbow Thai Spa on Gravelly Lane, Erdington, and Thai Oriental Spa on Jockey Road, Sutton Coldfield.
Guilty Plea and Court Hearing Details
Zhong Wang, aged 44, from Erdington, has pleaded guilty to keeping two brothels and possession of criminal property. At a hearing at Birmingham Crown Court on Tuesday, February 17, prosecutor Timothy Sapwell provided details of the operation.
"The women were sleeping and eating at the premises, effectively living there offering and performing sexual services for cash," Sapwell stated. "When questioned about the defendant, the women didn't acknowledge they knew him. They gave rehearsed answers."
Police Investigation and Additional Closures
The brothels were discovered after Wang was arrested last year. Since then, West Midlands Police has shut down further businesses in separate cases not connected to him.
In November, police sought an order from Birmingham Magistrates' Court to close Dragon Phoenix Massage on Hatchford Brook Road, Solihull. A few weeks later, Shangri La on Bishops Way, Four Oaks was forced to cease operations.
Sentencing and Police Statement
Wang is yet to be sentenced for his involvement with Rainbow Thai Spa and Thai Oriental Spa, but a judge warned he was likely facing an immediate jail term.
Speaking previously, investigating officer DC Amelia Rose commented on the case: "We worked hard to bring these charges against Wang – exploring multiple lines of enquiry, carrying out searches, and speaking to those involved. Because of the often hidden nature of brothels, finding and arresting those in charge of them can be difficult, and we're pleased that Wang is facing prison for the exploitation of women."
