Police raid uncovers alleged prostitution hub

On 1 October, a team from the Patel Nagar police station acted on a tip that a rented flat in Neelkanth Enclave, Harbhajwala, was being used as a centre for illegal activities. The specially formed squad entered the premises and found three adult women, a minor girl and three men present.

Alleged modus operandi of the operation

According to investigators, the property had been leased by Manish Kumar Lakheda, who allegedly orchestrated the racket. Women were reportedly sourced from Delhi and neighbouring areas, with clients approached via phone calls and WhatsApp. Photographs of the women were allegedly circulated to prospective buyers, who then arranged meetings either at the rented flat or at locations of their choosing.

Minor rescued after being deceived

Police say the minor was brought to Dehradun by an accomplice identified as Abhishek, who told her the trip was to Mussoorie. Once inside the house, she was pressured to take part in the illicit trade and, after refusing, was locked in a room. The raid enabled officers to free her and place her under protective custody.

Charges filed

A case, No. 704/2026, has been registered at Patel Nagar police station. The prosecution has invoked sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (96, 99, 127(2) and 3(5)), the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act (14(5)) and the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act (3, 4, 5 and 11). Legal proceedings against the accused are already underway.

Six individuals taken into custody

The arrested persons have been identified as Manish Kumar Lakheda, 42; Abhishek, 35; Bhanu alias Siddhant; Mamta, 28; Neha, 24; and Suman, 24. They hail from various parts of Dehradun and Delhi. During the search, police also confiscated objectionable material, certain medicines, and ₹18,000 in cash, which is believed to be linked to the alleged operation.

Investigation continues

Authorities are now probing the wider network, clarifying each suspect’s exact role, and investigating how the minor ended up at the location. Further updates will be provided as the case progresses.