Police operation uncovers a suspected prostitution hub

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

How the scheme was allegedly organised

According to investigators, the property was leased by Manish Kumar Lakheda, who is alleged to have orchestrated the operation. Women were said to be recruited from Delhi and neighbouring districts, with clients approached via phone calls and WhatsApp messages. 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 about the purpose of the trip

Police say the girl was brought to Dehradun by an accomplice identified as Abhishek, who told her the journey was meant for a trip to Mussoorie. Upon arrival, she was coerced into participating in the illegal activity and, when she refused, was locked in a room. The raid freed her, and she has since been placed under protective custody.

Charges framed 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, officers also confiscated objectionable material, certain medicines, and ₹18,000 in cash, which is believed to be linked to the alleged racket.

Investigation ongoing

Authorities are now probing the wider network, clarifying each suspect’s exact role, and investigating how the minor became entangled in the operation. Further updates will be provided as the case progresses.