Hunt for man in vice racket probe

Police believe Antonio Tanase, aged 35, may have more information about the plight of a woman who claimed she was forced in Birmingham's sex industry.

Officers believe Tanase, who is also known as Pardy or Parda, may be moving around Smethwick, Selly Oak and Balsall Heath.

It is believed the woman had been forced to work in a massage parlour in the Deritend or Sparkbrook area of Birmingham.

Officers believe Tanase may also be able to supply information about another woman who was due to be exploited and a man responsible for forging Romanian travel documents. Both said they had been threatened unless they agreed to take part.

All three have returned home to their native Romania after giving statements to police about their treatment.

Tanase has access to an Italian registered BMW 3-series which bears an Italian registration plate of BR 502 SX.

This has been seen around the Smethwick area as recently as April 30 and it is believed Tanase may be using it to move among the Romanian population around the city.

Officers are concerned that there may be other victims being forced into work after being trafficked into Britain. Police today urged them to come forward and assured them that any information would be treated with the utmost confidence.

Det Con Mark Timmins, of Smethwick CID, said: "It is a common ploy for people victims of this crime to be told that the police will arrest, beat or even murder people coming forward.

"This is simply not the case."

Det Con Timmins said: "We would like to speak to this man in connection with human trafficking and offences involving prostitution

"We believe he has been bringing people into this country using promises of prosperity and need to speak to him urgently regarding his involvement in matters such as this."

Anyone with information is urged to contact the confidential Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111 or dial Smethwick CID on 0845 113 5000.