In Beirut: Dismantling Two Organized Prostitution Networks!

Issued by the General Directorate of Internal Security Forces - Public Relations Section:

In the framework of continuous efforts by the Internal Security Forces to combat crimes undermining public decency and dismantle networks involved in human trafficking and prostitution, information was obtained on 30-07-2026 by the Human Trafficking Prevention and Decency Protection Unit within the Judicial Police Branch regarding the activity of two organized networks in the city of Beirut, particularly in the Hamra district.

Following investigative and intelligence operations, it was established that the first network operated through communication with clients via "WhatsApp," sending photos of girls working within the network for clients to choose from, after which the client would book a room at one of the capital's hotels, where the selected girl would be sent in exchange for a monetary payment to engage in prostitution.

Through surveillance and monitoring operations, the unit’s patrols managed to apprehend three women in the act inside one of the hotels, as well as detain the suspect (A.H.), who confessed to managing the network, along with four Syrian nationals and a Palestinian male who worked as a driver.

Simultaneously, patrols raided a second network operating under what is known as the "Escort" system within the same hotel, arresting four Russian nationals and one Brazilian national on the spot, while seizing financial proceeds derived from prostitution activities.

During questioning, the detained individuals admitted to working within an organized network managed by two individuals outside Lebanese territory known by the aliases "Mila" and "Max." Four arrest warrants were issued against them and other fugitives involved.

The suspect (A.H.) also confessed to managing a network comprising eight women and working on behalf of a larger network run by an individual known as "Abu Ali." The detained Syrian women confirmed engaging in prostitution under her facilitation and management, prompting the issuance of additional arrest warrants for other suspects involved.

Additionally, the hotel owner and one of his employees were detained following confirmation of their involvement in facilitating prostitution activities. It was also revealed that one of the arrested individuals was implicated in arms trafficking.

The hotel was sealed off with red wax, and legal procedures were initiated against the detainees as per the instructions of the competent judicial authority, while investigations remain ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspects.