Nagpur: Under the ongoing “Operation Shakti” campaign aimed at dismantling human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation networks in Nagpur, the Social Security Branch (SSB) of the Crime Branch carried out a successful raid in Pardi area and busted a prostitution racket.

The operation, conducted between 4 pm and 9.20 pm on November 5, 2025, was led by officers of the SSB based on a reliable tip-off. Acting swiftly, the team raided the residence of one Neha alias Pooja Ramprasad Shahu (45) at Plot No. 73, Bhawani Nagar, near Rohit Pan Thela under Pardi Police Station limits.

Investigations revealed that Shahu, in connivance with her accomplice Vaibhav Dwivedi of Gulmohar Nagar, Kalamna, was running a prostitution racket for monetary gain. The accused were found providing space for customers and forcing young women into prostitution. Police rescued three victimized women during the raid.

Officials seized ₹2,000 in cash, a mobile phone, and other materials worth ₹9,010 from the spot. A case has been registered at Pardi Police Station under Sections 3, 4, 5, and 7 of the Prevention of Immoral Traffic Act (PITA). The arrested woman and seized property have been handed over to local police for further investigation, while a manhunt is on to trace the absconding accused, Vaibhav Dwivedi.

The action was carried out under the supervision of Commissioner of Police Dr Ravinder Kumar Singal, Joint Commissioner Navinchandra Reddy, Additional CP (Crime) Vasant Pardeshi, Deputy Commissioner (Detection) Rahul Makanikar, and Assistant Commissioner (Crime Branch) Abhijit Patil, led by API Shivaji Nanaware and his team.