A joint operation involving local residents and police on Sunday exposed the Venus Spa Center in Dharmanagar’s Madhya Nayapara for allegedly running a sex racket.
The center, operating out of one Nitish Ghosh’s residence, was reportedly being run by Sourav Majumdar and Mithu Das from Agartala.
Local residents had been alleging for a considerable period that the spa was involved in illicit activities, including prostitution. Despite repeated complaints to the Dharmanagar police station, no action was reportedly taken until today’s raid.
During the operation, Sanjib Kumar, a BSF personnel from the 97th Battalion stationed in Karimganj district of Assam, was apprehended at the scene. A case has been registered against the accused under sections 70/2024 and 37(1) of the Immoral Traffic Act.
The women involved in the racket were released while couple of other males reportedly managed to run away.
It is also reported that while a case was lodged against Sanjiv Kumar, no action was taken against the Spa owners.
Local people vented anger against the police and alleged, “We repeatedly informed police about the illegal activities in Soa. However, all complaints fell on deaf ears. Police did not pay heed to our allegations that illegal and immoral activities in the locality are polluting the ambience”.
Even after today’s raid, people are unhappy with the role of the police.
“Firstly, police let the girls involved go without any interrogation. Secondly, Police are yet to take action against the erring Spa owners”, locals alleged.
The police are yet to issue an official statement regarding the allegations and the ongoing investigation.