23-08-2023 : A significant breakthrough occurred in Srinagar as Jammu and Kashmir police uncovered a sex trafficking operation operating from a rented establishment, ultimately leading to the arrest of five individuals, including three women. The location of the illicit activities was a rented property owned by a Panchayat member, casting a shadow on the involvement of local authorities in the criminal operation.
The operation came to light in the vicinity of Shan Mohalla, Nowgam, following tip-offs from concerned citizens, who provided critical information to the police. This citizen collaboration played a pivotal role in unveiling the depths of the flesh trade racket, underlining the importance of community vigilance in combating such illicit activities.
Subsequent investigations led to the arrest of three local females and two males, all implicated in orchestrating a prostitution network within a rented building owned by a Sarpanch at Shan Mohalla, Nowgam. This discovery sheds light on the alarming reality of sex trafficking flourishing in the heart of the city, a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities present even within residential areas.
In response to this disturbing revelation, the police have initiated legal proceedings, registering a First Information Report (FIR) under sections 3, 4, and 8 of the Immoral Trafficking Prevention Act at the Nowgam Police Station.
Disturbingly, this incident is not isolated; this year alone, Jammu and Kashmir police have dismantled several sex trafficking rings operating within the region. The prevalence of such criminal activities underscores the need for sustained efforts by law enforcement agencies to root out the underlying factors and protect those at risk of falling prey to such heinous operations.