Woman 'found hiding behind brothel wall'
Authorities have moved to shut down a brothel after a Chinese national, who was working illegally as a sex worker, was found inside a secret compartment in one of its walls.
Police and Consumer Affairs officials made the shocking discovery during an inspection of the Paradise Playmates brothel, in Seaford, in December last year, Fairfax reports.
Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) heard an earlier search of the property failed to locate the secret cavity, but a second inspection revealed the hole concealed behind a set of 'well constructed shelves' attached to a small set of metal hinges.
Sergeant Richard Farrelly told the hearing he repeatedly tried and failed to open the shelves to reveal what he suspected was a hidden cavity behind.
When officials finally forced open the shelves, police discovered a 'female of Asian appearance', hiding inside, the court heard.
The woman was a Chinese national who did not have a valid visa and was working illegally as a sex worker.
Consumer Affairs have launched legal action in a bid to prevent owners, Zian Meng and Jian Xu, from running a brothel.
Lawyer for the owners told the court they disputed claims the cavity was used to hide women during brothel inspections.
They claim it is used as a 'retreat or safe room' in the event of a robbery.
Barrister Stephen Devlin said his clients were also unaware the woman found in the hidden cavity did not have a valid visa.
It is understood the woman has been deported, Fairfax reports.
Victoria Police has launched a major crack down on the state's sex industry, following claims it is linked to human trafficking and organised crime.
Morning news break – December 18
