North: Woman remanded on brothel charge

A South African woman accused of running a brothel in Belfast will flee into the Republic if released, police warned a court today.

Immigration officials from Liverpool are also carrying out checks on Patience Mumba, 35, who is allegedly living in the UK illegally.

Mumba was charged with controlling prostitution for gain and obstructing police after a raid on a brothel at St John’s wharf in Belfast on Wednesday.

Three other women arrested with her, two locals and one foreign national, were later released without charge.

As Mumba appeared at the city’s magistrates court today, Detective Constable Kieran Slaughter said she had arrived on a visitor’s visa from South Africa.

Opposing bail he said: “It would appear she is in the UK illegally in breach of her visa status.”

Although Mumba’s address was given as India Street, south Belfast, Mr Slaughter claimed she had various locations.

“In the line of work we’re dealing with, brothels, they move on. They live at one address for just a short time,” he said.

“There is a high likelihood she will cross the border with the Republic of Ireland if released.”

Mumba was remanded in custody for one week.