Lisbon investigation targets exploitation at Elefante Branco

The Portuguese Public Ministry has filed charges against 12 individuals in connection with an investigation into the ‘Elefante Branco’ establishment and an associated pension in Lisbon. Prosecutors allege that hundreds of women were exploited at these locations between 2019 and 2025.

Among those implicated is the owner of the establishment, Luís Torres. The investigation highlights the involvement of high-profile clients, including a former official from the Sporting football club. According to court documents, this former official allegedly used VIP services to pre-select specific women and reserve rooms for sexual encounters. While the individual has been called as a prosecution witness and denies having sexual relations at the venue—claiming he only paid for drinks—he was reportedly observed by police during surveillance operations.

The case also involves allegations regarding a police officer from the Intervention Unit who allegedly consumed services without payment. Additionally, intercepted communications from 2023 mention television presenter Maya, who reportedly contacted the owner to assist a businessperson in organizing a dinner where a companion was requested.