Ahmedabad Crime Branch Takes Action Against 120 Online Entities in Prostitution Racket Case
In a significant crackdown on organized online exploitation, the Ahmedabad City Crime Branch registered a First Information Report (FIR) on Saturday against 120 online entities. These entities, which include social media profiles and websites, are accused of running solicitation-prostitution rackets, circulating obscene content, and cheating citizens through online payments.
Digital Surveillance Uncovers Rackets
According to the FIR filed by a crime branch constable from the technical cell, the case emerged during routine digital surveillance and social media monitoring. The complainant stated, "As part of our daily duty, we analysed technical data and monitor social media platforms. During this process, we noticed several profiles and links to advertisements for sexual services in exchange for money."
The FIR notes that these profiles openly displayed obscene photographs and videos of women on public platforms. It further details that the profiles were found publishing vulgar images and videos, advertising hourly and overnight rates in Ahmedabad city, collecting money, and cheating people.
Use of AI and Online Fraud
In a statement issued on Sunday, the crime branch revealed that the perpetrators used artificial intelligence to generate and circulate explicit content to lure individuals under the guise of escort services. Investigators found that the operators allegedly shared payment details through messages and enticed users into transferring money online.
The crime branch added that preliminary findings suggest several victims were cheated after being asked to make online payments. The FIR records that such content amounts to character assassination of women, "causing serious harm to their dignity and self-respect."
Legal Violations and Social Consequences
Police officials emphasized that these activities violate multiple laws and have wider social consequences. The statement said, "These acts not only constitute cyberfraud but also outrage the modesty of women by displaying obscene material on public digital platforms."
Based on the findings, the crime branch invoked provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, and the Information Technology Act against the profile administrators and those operating the linked contact details.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation is currently underway to trace the operators, beneficiaries, and financial trails linked to these platforms. The crime branch stated that further action will follow as more evidence surfaces, underscoring their commitment to a sustained crackdown on such organized online exploitation.
This case highlights the growing challenges of cybercrime and the misuse of technology for illicit activities, prompting authorities to intensify their digital monitoring efforts to protect citizens and uphold social norms.
