Human trafficking network exposed in Ballymena and across NI as two sentenced over sexual exploitation
Tuesday 20 October 2026
Ballymena has been named among the locations where brothels were uncovered during the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s largest human trafficking investigation, which identified 27 premises linked to the sexual exploitation of vulnerable people across Northern Ireland.
Two people were sentenced at Dungannon Crown Court today, Tuesday 20 October, following the major investigation, which also uncovered brothels in Coleraine and Portrush, as well as several other towns and cities.
Mavia Martins Mariano, aged 51, from Belleek, and Gerard Corrigan, aged 66, from Pomeroy, were sentenced for offences connected to an organised crime group involved in trafficking women, men and transgender individuals for sexual exploitation.
Sentences handed down at Dungannon Crown Court
Mariano was sentenced to three years after being convicted of human trafficking, brothel keeping, controlling prostitution, acquiring criminal property, possessing criminal property and transferring criminal property.
Her sentences will run concurrently, with three months to be served in custody and the remaining 33 months on licence.
Corrigan received a 16-month sentence on each count of human trafficking, possessing criminal property and transferring criminal property, with the sentences running concurrently.
He was ordered to serve eight months in custody and the remaining eight months on licence.
Ballymena among locations identified by detectives
The investigation, known as Operation Liverless, began in 2022 and targeted an organised crime group trafficking individuals into and around Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Police identified brothels in Ballymena, Coleraine, Portrush, Newry, Armagh, Dungannon, Omagh, Cookstown, Derry/Londonderry, Belfast and Aughnacloy.
Many of the victims were originally from Brazil and, according to police, had been brought here with promises of a better life before being exploited through prostitution.
Detective Inspector Rachel Miskelly, from the PSNI’s Organised Crime Branch, said:
“Many of the victims were originally from Brazil. They were brought here, no doubt with false promises of a better life, however ended up as sex workers. They were placed in brothels, right across the country, in Newry, Armagh, Dungannon, Omagh, Cookstown, Derry/Londonderry, Coleraine, Belfast, Aughnacloy, Ballymena and Portrush.
“In total, twenty-seven brothels were identified throughout Northern Ireland during the course of the operation. Thanks to huge collective efforts, all 27 brothels were visited on the day of the arrests, and any potential victims present at the properties were safeguarded. The collaboration involved some 150 officers from several Police Service teams, along with the support of Criminal Justice partners.”
The operation was supported by An Garda Síochána, Home Office Immigration Enforcement, the National Crime Agency and the Public Prosecution Service.
Victims targeted because of their vulnerability
Detectives believe those responsible deliberately targeted people who were particularly vulnerable because of language barriers and their immigration status.
Detective Inspector Miskelly said:
“We believe the victims were specifically targeted due to their vulnerability, namely their lack of English language and their immigration status.
“This is so typical of what human traffickers do. They prey on victims who are in any way vulnerable, and those who are afraid or unable to speak out.
“Victims are used and abused, and treated like commodities. And, in this case, the victims were sexually exploited for the financial gain of others. It’s hard to imagine the fear, pain and humiliation they endured.”
Police urge victims and witnesses to come forward
Following the sentencings, police appealed directly to anyone who may be experiencing exploitation, while urging members of the public to report concerns about people who could be under the control of traffickers.
Detective Inspector Miskelly said:
“Nothing can undo the nightmare they have gone through. I am appealing to you, if you are being or have been exploited in any way, please speak to us. We will listen to you, we will respect you, and we will support you.
“To others, who may suspect that someone is being controlled in this way and can’t speak up, please do the right thing. We all have a part to play, and your support could end the misery of a victim living right next door.”
Warning signs of modern slavery
Police have highlighted several signs that may indicate someone is being trafficked or exploited. These include:
• Someone who cannot produce their passport or personal documents.
• Someone who is unsure of their home address or unfamiliar with the local area.
• Someone who appears distrustful of authorities.
• Someone who has no access to medical treatment.
• Someone who appears to be controlled by others or has another person consistently speaking on their behalf.
• An overcrowded house or flat with a regular turnover of occupants.
• Someone who has little or no cash because they are not allowed to keep the money they earn.
While these signs do not necessarily establish that trafficking is taking place, police are encouraging people to report suspicious circumstances.
How to report concerns about human trafficking
Anyone who suspects human trafficking, modern slavery or sexual exploitation can contact:
• Police emergency: 999 if someone is in immediate danger.
• Police non-emergency: 101 to report suspicious activity or concerns.
• Modern Slavery Helpline: 0800 012 1700 for advice and support.
• Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org to provide information anonymously.
With brothels identified in Ballymena and other communities across Northern Ireland, police are emphasising the importance of recognising possible exploitation and speaking up when something appears wrong.
Officers say information from the public could be crucial in identifying victims who are too frightened or unable to seek help themselves.
