Social Security Squad Raids Sex Racket in Phule Market

The Social Security Squad of the Crime Branch conducted a raid on Friday, May 3, at 1:30 pm, exposing a sex racket operating in a shop named Joshi Traders in the Mahatma Phule Vegetable Market. The operation resulted in panic among those involved in prostitution within the market premises.

The accused, Jai Mahadev Joshi (42), a resident of Ramakrishna Nagar, had previously operated Joshi Sweets and Hotel in shops 44 and 45 within the Phule Market building. He used these premises to exploit women, including those who worked as vegetable pickers, engaging them in prostitution under the guise of selling potatoes and onions.

Joshi's operations involved women gathering inside his hotel and around the parking lot and nearby shop platforms, where they would initiate conversations with young boys and men passing by. The behavior caused significant discomfort among other traders in the market complex, leading to complaints and eventual police action.

Acting on information received, Police Inspector Kavita Isarkar from the Social Security Squad led a planned raid on the shop, gaining access to the upper rooms through a staircase located in the corner. During the raid, police found Joshi accepting money from customers and facilitating prostitution in the upper rooms. They rescued two victims and confiscated Rs. 215,500 in cash, a mobile phone, and other items valued at Rs. 225,610.

Following the raid, a case was registered against Jai Mahadev Joshi at the Ganeshpeth police station under relevant sections of the law. The success of the operation reflects the efforts of the Social Security Squad in addressing illegal activities and protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation.