Man hunted over trafficking for prostitution in Brighton

Detectives are hunting a man believed to be responsible for trafficking a woman in Brighton for prostitution.

Sussex Police issued an efit image yesterday (Friday 30 May) as part of their efforts to try to trace the man.

The man is believed to be known as Rola Benwar. He is a Zimbabwean national and was described as black, in his mid-forties, about 5ft 6in tall or slightly taller, with black eyes and a shaven thin face.

Sussex Police said: “In February this year a 31-year-old woman from Cameroon was found during a routine police vehicle check in Old Steine, Brighton, as a passenger in a pick-up truck driven by a man.

“Officers became concerned for her welfare and it became evident that she had been engaging in prostitution in the area, with the man known as Benwar making the arrangements, although he was not in the truck.

“The man in the truck with her was initially arrested on suspicion of human trafficking but was later released and no further action is being taken against him.

“The woman has received welfare support and advice and is not subject of any police investigation.”

Detective Constable Paul Clements said: “We believe this man may have been using threats and compulsion to make this woman engage in prostitution locally.

“So far we have unable to positively identify him and we hope that the efit, together with the information we are releasing, will cause someone to recognise him.

“He may still be in the Brighton and Hove area, but may equally be further afield.”

Anyone with information is asked to phone Sussex Police on 101, email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.