Police Scotland has uncovered a suspected brothel in Stirling as part of Operation Begonia, a targeted effort to address commercial sexual exploitation across the Forth Valley.
Following an investigation into a high volume of online advertisements for sexual services, officers conducted welfare checks at 14 addresses in Stirling and Falkirk. On Friday, February 27, police executed a warrant at a Stirling property linked to suspected brothel-keeping, recovering several items as part of an ongoing investigation.
A "Victim-Centered" Approach
Detective Superintendent Michelle Findlay stated that the operation is designed to prioritize the health and safety of individuals involved. Key goals of the operation include:
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Safety & Welfare: Ensuring individuals are signposted to support agencies.
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Targeting Exploiters: Identifying crime gangs and individual perpetrators who pose a threat.
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Community Confidence: Encouraging local reporting to build trust in police efforts to tackle violence against women and girls.
The Case for Inclusive Policy
While Police Scotland emphasizes a "victim-centered" strategy, advocates and rights groups argue that these initiatives are most effective when they move beyond traditional policing.
To ensure that welfare checks and support services are truly helpful—and do not inadvertently increase the risk of displacement or stigma—sex workers should be directly involved in the development of these policies. Proponents of this approach argue that including those with lived experience ensures that safety measures are practical, rights-based, and address the actual needs of the community rather than relying solely on enforcement.
“Our focus is the health and welfare of people involved in prostitution and we are working alongside partners to support them and ensure they are safe from harm.” > — Detective Superintendent Michelle Findlay
Police continue to urge anyone with concerns to contact officers via 101 or report anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.