Pune: Prostitution Racket Busted in Chikhali; Cross-Border Trafficking Angle Emerges

The Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU) of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate’s Crime Branch has uncovered a prostitution racket that was allegedly being run from a lodge in the Chikhali area. Acting on credible inputs, officials confirmed that a total of nine women were rescued during the operation. Among those rescued was a foreign national who had reportedly been trafficked into India from Bangladesh, raising serious concerns about cross-border human trafficking. Authorities revealed that the rescue operation was part of a broader crackdown on illegal activities taking place under the guise of legitimate businesses in the region.

The raid was conducted late at night on April 13, around 11 pm, at Aditya Lodge located at Laxmi Chowk on the Dehu-Alandi Road. The action was jointly carried out by the AHTU and the Anti-Terrorism Cell of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police. Officials stated that they had received specific information suggesting that unlawful activities were being carried out from the premises under the cover of a lodging facility. Acting swiftly on the tip-off, a team of officers conducted a surprise raid, leading to the rescue of the victims and exposure of the alleged prostitution network operating at the location.

During the course of the operation, police arrested five individuals believed to be directly linked to the racket. The accused have been identified as lodge manager Ashok Baburao Babar, employee Akibul Khalek Mulla, alleged operator Sudarshan Pawar, property owner Nana Borate, and another manager Sahil, also known as Shahin Shirajul Mandal. Investigators suspect that each of the arrested individuals played a role in facilitating or running the illegal activities at the lodge. Authorities are currently interrogating the accused to gather more details about their involvement and to uncover any additional connections linked to the operation.

Following the raid, a formal case has been registered at the Chikhali Police Station under the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate. The charges have been filed under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) as well as the Prevention of Immoral Traffic Act (PITA). Police officials highlighted that one of the rescued women had been trafficked into India from Bangladesh, and necessary legal procedures have been initiated to ensure her safe return to her home country. Authorities are also coordinating with relevant agencies to facilitate her repatriation in accordance with legal protocols and international norms.

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Police data indicates that the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit has significantly stepped up its efforts against trafficking-related crimes in 2026. So far this year, the unit has conducted raids at 11 different establishments, including seven spas and massage centres and four hotels. These operations have led to the arrest of 31 individuals and the rescue of 28 women. Officials stated that such intensified actions are part of an ongoing strategy to dismantle organised networks involved in exploitation and illegal trafficking activities across the Pimpri-Chinchwad region.

Investigators have confirmed that further inquiries are currently in progress to trace the broader network behind the racket. Police are working to identify additional suspects, possible financiers, and links to interstate or international trafficking chains. Authorities have not ruled out the involvement of larger organised groups and are analysing evidence collected during the raid. Officials emphasised that strict action will be taken against anyone found connected to the case, as efforts continue to curb human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.