A joint operation by Gurugram Police and the Haryana State Commission for Women at Sapphire 90 Mall in Sector 90 led to the detention of around 20 men and more than 30 women for questioning, after authorities found suspected illegal activity at eight of the 18 spa centres inspected.
The raid began at around 10pm on Friday and continued until approximately 3am on Saturday, according to the report. Around 70 to 100 police personnel and officers took part in the operation, including about 20 inspectors and sub-inspector-level officials. A duty magistrate was also present during the action.
The operation followed complaints received by the Haryana State Commission for Women from shopkeepers around the mall over several months. The commission then coordinated with Gurugram Police and the district administration to inspect the spa centres operating in the commercial complex.
Police said the inspection covered 18 to 19 centres. Prima facie evidence of suspected illegal activities was found at eight locations, according to the report. Authorities seized electronic and digital devices, along with physical and documentary material, and are examining the role of the owners, operators, managers and other associates connected with the centres.
The police also said that objectionable articles and suspected narcotic substances were recovered from some of the premises. The items have been seized and will form part of the ongoing investigation. The report does not establish the final nature of the materials or whether they will lead to further charges.
The Haryana State Commission for Women has raised the possibility that some of the women detained could be minors. Their ages and the circumstances surrounding their presence at the centres had not been confirmed at the time of the report. Authorities are expected to establish their identities and ages as part of the investigation.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Abhilaksh Joshi said the operation was conducted on the directions of the commission chairperson and the police commissioner, following information received by the authorities. He said the district administration, police administration and the state commission worked together during the raid.
Police have begun action under the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act. The investigation is also examining allegations that some women may have been forcibly pushed into prostitution. These allegations remain subject to inquiry, and the police are questioning those detained while assessing the seized evidence and the possible involvement of the spa-centre management.
The next steps will include verifying the identities and ages of the women detained, analysing the seized electronic and documentary evidence, and determining the legal responsibility of the owners, operators, managers and other persons linked to the centres.
