Pune Police Bust Prostitution Racket Masquerading as Ayurvedic Spa; Three Booked
Pune, 8th January 2026: The Anti-Human Trafficking and Prostitution Prevention Cell of the Pune Crime Branch has uncovered a prostitution racket operating under the guise of an Ayurvedic spa, registering cases against three individuals, including a minor.
According to police, the operation was conducted at the Manali Ayurvedic Treatment Centre on Singhgad Road–Anand Nagar. Following a tip-off regarding illegal activities at the centre, officers carried out a sting operation using a decoy client, confirming that sexual services were being offered under the pretense of spa treatments.
The accused have been identified as Vidya Madan Mandale (resident of Katraj) and Pramod Baban Khatpe (resident of Ambegaon). A minor employed at the centre has also been taken into custody. Police recovered Rs 23,200 in cash, mobile phones, and other materials during the raid conducted around 4:45 pm on Tuesday.
Police said the accused allegedly lured a victim with promises of payment and coerced her into providing sexual services under the spa’s pretext. The victim was rescued during the operation.
The raid was carried out under the supervision of Senior Police Inspector Ashalata Khapre, with officers Ishwar Andhale, Baban Kedar, Kishor Bhujbal, and Vaishali Khedekar forming the action team. Legal proceedings are underway against the accused under the Anti-Human Trafficking and Prostitution Prevention Act.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to cracking down on illegal sex trade operations, particularly those exploiting minors and vulnerable individuals, and warned that similar establishments would face strict action.
