Operation uncovers suspected prostitution hub

On 1 October, a team from the Patel Nagar police station acted on a lead that a leased house in Neelkanth Enclave, Harbhajwala, was being used for illegal sex‑trade activities. The specially formed squad entered the premises and found three adult women, a minor girl and three men.

Alleged modus operandi of the racket

Investigators say the property was rented by Manish Kumar Lakheda, who allegedly coordinated the operation. Women were reportedly sourced from Delhi and nearby districts, with clients approached via phone calls and WhatsApp. Photographs of the women were said to be circulated to prospective buyers, who then arranged meetings either at the rented house or at locations of their choosing.

Minor rescued after being deceived

Police statements indicate the girl was brought to Dehradun by an accomplice identified as Abhishek, who told her the journey was for a trip to Mussoorie. Upon arrival, she was pressured to take part in the illicit activities; when she refused, she was locked in a room. The raid freed her, and she has since been placed under protective custody.

Charges filed in court

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 suspects taken into custody

The arrested individuals 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, believed to be linked to the alleged operation.

Investigation ongoing

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