Man arrested in St. Pölten for suspected pimping and human trafficking

A 30-year-old Hungarian man has been arrested in St. Pölten on suspicion of pimping and human trafficking. Investigations by the Upper Austria State Criminal Police Office suggest the man exploited two women, aged 31 and 41, between June and October 2026.

Authorities allege the suspect recruited the women in Hungary by exploiting their financial difficulties and subsequently brought them to Austria, where they engaged in prostitution primarily in Linz. While the suspect allegedly profited from their activities, the women were reportedly forced to cover their own costs for accommodation, internet advertisements, and contraceptives. The suspect is accused of enriching himself by a high five-figure amount.

The arrest took place on October 6 at an illegally operated brothel in St. Pölten. While the suspect has denied the pimping charges, he partially admitted to cross-border prostitution trafficking. He was transferred to the Linz judicial institution following the arrest.