‘Open’ flesh trade and robbery racket on Beed Bypass

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Despite prohibitory orders, self-proclaimed transgender groups and men in sarees allegedly continued running an open flesh trade and robbery racket across the Beed Bypass and adjoining rural stretches.

Nearly 25 individuals reportedly stood daily on both sides of the bypass from Deolai Chowk to Jhalta Phata, along the Solapur–Dhule highway, AS Club Chowk, Waluj, Waluj industrial area and the old Beed Bypass. Dressed in scant clothing, they allegedly created informal hubs on vacant plots, where liquor bottles and obscene material were frequently found in nearby bushes. Late at night, passing motorists and outstation truck and container drivers were allegedly lured to isolated spots and robbed after accomplices were summoned through clapping signals, reportedly under the protection of local goons.

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The bypass falls under three city police stations and one rural police station, with most activity reported in MIDC Cidco and Chikalthana jurisdictions. Multiple complaints were allegedly made to Chikalthana police (rural), but residents claim jurisdiction disputes between city and rural police led to inaction, emboldening the gangs and ultimately preceding the recent murder of a lawyer.

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Fresh prohibitory orders issued

Following Wednesday’s killing, the police commissionerate issued fresh prohibitory orders banning money-seeking at crowded places, roads, residences and public functions, and prohibiting obscene gestures or coercive demands. Similar orders had earlier been issued but were not effectively enforced due to boundary-related disputes.