In a significant operation against human trafficking, the Dhakoli police have dismantled a prostitution ring that was operating clandestinely from a spa centre in Peer Muchalla. The raid led to the rescue of eight women and the detention of several individuals involved in the racket.
Raid Based on Specific Intelligence
Acting on a tip-off from a reliable informant, a police team conducted a surprise raid at A-1 Luxury Spa located in Sai Market, Peer Muchalla. The operation was carried out on December 15 at approximately 8:30 PM. The informant had alerted the police that young women were being brought to the establishment under false pretenses of employment and then coerced into the sex trade.
The police patrol, which included Assistant Sub-Inspector Maninder Singh, constables Avtar Singh and Palaminder Singh, and woman constable Sompal Kaur, was near D-Mart when they received the crucial information. It was revealed that the spa, masquerading as a legitimate wellness center, was charging customers high sums for illicit services and had seven to eight girls present at any given time to facilitate the illegal business.
Rescue and Arrests
Following the swift action, eight women were successfully rescued from the premises. The police took three men into custody on the spot. A formal case has been registered against four accused:
- Sukhdev, a resident of Jind, Haryana.
- Vikram from Meham, Rohtak.
- Sagar from Takhana, Karnal.
- Karan Kumar from Mirzapur Ajgaon, Unnao, Uttar Pradesh.
The authorities have invoked stringent sections of the law against the accused. They have been booked under Sections 3, 4, and 5 of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, alongside Sections 111(2)(b) and 61(2) of the Indian Penal Code.
Building Sealed, Wider Conspiracy Suspected
Given the gravity of the offence, the police immediately called the tehsildar to the location. The entire building housing the spa was subsequently sealed in the presence of this revenue official. This step was taken to prevent any tampering with evidence and to cease all operations immediately.
Investigating officers have indicated that the illegal activity might have been running with the alleged connivance of the showroom owner. This angle is currently under active investigation. The police have confirmed that the probe is ongoing and more arrests are likely as they delve deeper into the network behind this flesh trade racket.
This crackdown highlights the continued efforts by law enforcement to combat human trafficking and illegal activities operating under legitimate business fronts. The police have urged the public to come forward with any relevant information that could aid the investigation.