Dhule Police Successfully Locate 190 Missing Persons in Intensive Two-Week Drive
In a significant breakthrough, the Dhule police have successfully traced 165 missing women and reunited 22 girls and three boys, all minors, with their families. This achievement came during a dedicated two-week special campaign aimed at addressing long-pending missing complaints filed by relatives. The operation highlights ongoing concerns about the substantial number of women and girls reported missing or abducted in the district.
Operation Shodh-3: A Coordinated Effort Across Police Units
Acting on directives from the additional director general of police for women and child crimes prevention, Dhule authorities launched ‘Operation Shodh‑3' from March 6 to 21. This initiative spanned all police units in Dhule district with the primary goal of locating missing women and kidnapped minors. Dhule superintendent of police Shreekant Dhivare confirmed that a total of 190 people, including both women and minors, were traced during this period.
To ensure effective execution, the deputy superintendent of police (home) was appointed as the nodal officer. Specialized missing cells were established in Dhule, Shirpur, and Sakri subdivisions, complemented by the formation of nine search teams. These teams included several women officers and personnel, enhancing sensitivity and outreach in the search efforts.
Extensive Search and Inter-State Coordination
The search teams collaborated closely with the local crime branch and the anti-human trafficking cell, extending their operations beyond Dhule district. Their efforts reached neighbouring districts, Mumbai, and even bordering states like Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to locating the missing persons.
All minors traced during Operation Shodh-3 have been successfully reunited with their families. In cases involving adult women, many had voluntarily chosen to stay away due to personal or family issues, or because they had married and preferred not to return. The police have informed their families of these decisions, respecting individual autonomy while ensuring transparency.
Background and Future Initiatives
Operation Shodh is a specialized, targeted initiative launched in 2025 to track and rescue missing women and children. Running alongside Operation Muskan, it has successfully traced thousands of individuals, often involving inter-state coordination to reunite separated family members. Superintendent Dhivare emphasized that the police will continue conducting similar drives in the future, underscoring a commitment to addressing this persistent issue.
The success of Operation Shodh-3 not only brings relief to affected families but also showcases the effectiveness of coordinated police efforts in tackling complex social challenges. As authorities remain vigilant, such campaigns serve as a model for proactive measures in crime prevention and community safety.
