- Undercover law enforcement officers successfully apprehended the operation of the illicit Pasha house of prostitution.
The law enforcement agency quickly took control of the popular Cologne "Pascha" strip club due to an ongoing investigation into alleged human trafficking activities. This action was taken as a precautionary measure as part of the investigative process, according to a representative from the responsible prosecutor's office in Düsseldorf. Despite the seizure, the establishment can continue to operate as a walk-in brothel as reported earlier by "Bild" newspaper.
The authorities seized the entire property, including the famous pink eleven-story building, approximately a month ago, explained the representative, with the intention of preventing any potential asset transfers. The owners are now prohibited from selling the distinctive building. The representative did not provide additional information regarding the investigation's background.
The probe into the alleged human trafficking ring has been ongoing for several months, involving the provision of German residency permits on a large scale for affluent individuals from China and Oman. In April, raids were conducted at homes in eight different federal states, and two local lawyers are suspected of playing a leading role in these activities. Bribery of officials is also being investigated.
After a period of financial instability, the prominent "Pascha" was purchased by a company in 2021. Media sources suggest that a Chinese investor is responsible for the purchase.
The investigation into human trafficking activities has been focused on Germany, with allegations of providing German residency permits on a large scale to affluent individuals from China and Oman. The seizure of the "Pascha" strip club in Cologne is part of this wider probe, as the establishment is believed to be linked to the case.
