In a major breakthrough, the Commissionerate Police in Bhubaneswar have arrested four people in connection with the alleged rape and trafficking of a 17-year-old girl from Jharkhand. The operation was carried out by the Capital Police Station team after an intensive investigation.
Key Accused Arrested
According to reports, among those arrested are two brokers, the house owner, and the suspected mastermind behind the racket. Police said the group was involved in running an organised sex trafficking network in the city.
Investigators are examining CCTV footage to trace other suspects and identify possible customers linked to the case.
POCSO Charges Filed
The house owner, identified as Bapi alias Sanjeev Das, and broker Abinash Muduli have been booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Police said the victim, who was found critically injured, is now being treated in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
How the Case Came to Light
The case came to light late Friday night when the 17-year-old girl arrived at Capital Hospital in a semi-conscious and bloodied state. Medical staff immediately informed police after noticing injuries that suggested sexual assault.
Police said the survivor is a native of Jharkhand. Due to her condition, she was unable to speak clearly during the initial questioning. A formal case was soon registered, and a team raided a house in Bhubaneswar’s Laxmisagar area the next day.
Ten Women Rescued During Raid
During the raid, ten young women were rescued from a residential property that was allegedly being used for sex trade activities. The premises had several rooms that functioned as operational spaces for the illegal racket.
Two women were detained for questioning, while one male suspect is still absconding. Police suspect that minor girls and young women from other states were trafficked to Bhubaneswar and forced into the trade.
Investigation Underway
The Commissionerate Police continue to investigate the case to uncover the larger network behind the trafficking operation. More arrests are likely as the team analyses digital evidence and financial records connected to the suspects.
Officials said strict action will be taken against anyone found involved in the crime.
