Police raid uncovers a purported prostitution hub

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

Alleged modus operandi of the operation

According to investigators, the house was leased by Manish Kumar Lakheda, who allegedly orchestrated the racket. Women were reportedly recruited from Delhi and nearby districts, with clients contacted through 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 associate identified as Abhishek, who told her the trip was for a visit to Mussoorie. Upon arrival, she was pressured to take part in the illegal activity and, after refusing, was locked in a room. The raid enabled her rescue and she has now been placed under protective custody.

Charges filed under multiple statutes

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 became involved. Further updates will be provided as the case progresses.