By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 29: In a significant operation described as a major crackdown against flesh trade in the commercial heart of Police Bazar, police have apprehended 16 people, including 4 pimps, for engaging in activities indicative of prostitution and related immoral practices.
The raids, conducted on Saturday night, came following multiple complaints from concerned citizens and local stakeholders about sex workers operating from locations in close proximity to religious places such as churches and a Gurudwara.
Complaints also highlighted the rise in HIV cases in Shillong, prompting swift action to address the growing menace of organised flesh trade in the bustling commercial areas of the city.
A coordinated operation was launched at multiple sensitive spots, including the stretch from Khyndai Lad near Pegasus Hotel to the Presbyterian English Service Church opposite SBI Main Branch, areas opposite the MBoSE office in Lachumiere, and IGP Point.
These locations fall squarely within Shillong’s busy commercial and power hubs, where such illegal activities had reportedly been disrupting the environment near places of worship and public spaces.
The police team was led by Additional Superintendent of Police (Operations) Ivan Diengdoh and assisted by Deputy Superintendent of Police (WCC) Jyoti Wahlang, OC of Sadar PS, OC of Women PS, and OC of Laitumkhrah PS, along with other officers and personnel from East Khasi Hills district.
During the raids, 16 persons were apprehended from the noted locations while allegedly engaging in prostitution-related activities. Four of them have been identified as pimps or agents actively facilitating and procuring persons for the purpose of prostitution, playing a key role in the organised racket.
In addition, one Swift Dzire car and two scooties used in the commission of the offences have been seized. A case has been registered at Sadar Police Station under Sections 4, 5, 7, and 8 of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act (ITPA) read with Section 110 of the Meghalaya Police Act against the apprehended persons.
East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem confirmed that the action was taken based on public complaints, particularly regarding immoral activities near religious institutions and concerns over rising HIV cases. Further investigation is under way to uncover any larger syndicate involved, he added.
