TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (WIAT) — Authorities have apprehended the proprietor of three massage establishments in Tuscaloosa County on Thursday in connection with an inquiry into suspected human trafficking and illicit activities.

Capt. Phil Simpson revealed that the investigation, which involved undercover agents and thorough surveillance, commenced around a year and a half ago following reports from local residents and neighboring businesses.

Jianping Chen, 70, faces four charges of second-degree promotion of prostitution. He owns Apple Massage Spa, TuiNa Massage, and Eastern Massage, all located within Tuscaloosa County. According to Simpson, Mandarin-speaking translators are currently conversing with nine women found residing in these establishments.

“These are overt prostitution operations being conducted right in plain sight,” Simpson remarked. “Our focus is on preventing such exploitation. Every visit for a massage at these places results in victimization.”