Fear may wreck war on vice trade

Tough new penalties for criminals who smuggle women into London to work as prostitutes may fail because victims are terrified to come forward, police have warned.

Home Secretary David Blunkett will this week announce plans for a new crime of "people trafficking for the purposes of sexual exploitation", carrying penalties of up to 14 years' jail.

The move against the organisedgangs who drive the London-vice trade comes as it is estimated that three-quarters of the capital's prostitutes are illegal immigrants, mainly from Eastern Europe, entering Britain on false visas or hidden in the backs of lorries.

Scotland Yard says the women are afraid to talk to police and that in the last five years only two women have given evidence.

Police offer women protection if they agree to testify and the Home Office is looking at creating a shelter for trafficked women. But Chief Inspector Chris Bradford, of the Met's clubs and vice unit, said: "These girls are in a terrible situation because not only are there threats of violence against them, but also against their families back home. Pimps can and do give them a good hiding but will also give their brother or sister one back in Pristina. They're very frightened when they get here."

It is difficult for the women to run away since their pimps usually confiscate passports. In addition, they normally have no idea where to go, added Mr Bradford.