Redbridge Council is putting a stop to stickers on walls and lampposts advertising illegal massages and prostitution.

The authority and police launched a crackdown in the town centre on Thursday, September 6 to tackle the adverts.

Thanks to patrols launched in the area by non-uniformed officers and CCTV footage, two suspects have been questioned for distributing massage cards.

Three others were issued on the spot fines for breaching the Public Space Protection Order in place in the town centre.

Evidence from members of the public, CCTV and officer’s statements have been handed on to authorities ready for prosecution.

Cllr John Howard, cabinet member for civic pride, said: “This sends a very clear message that we operate a zero-tolerance approach to anyone breaking the law by advertising massage services and littering the town centre with these cards.

“We are working very hard to keep our borough clean and will not hesitate to fine and prosecute anyone that breaks the rules. This has been a great example of partnership working between local businesses, the council and the police.”

To report any suspicious behaviour, contact Redbridge Council Community Protection team here.