Shillong (Meghalaya) , March 29: In a coordinated operation, police arrested 16 individuals, including four pimps, for allegedly engaging in prostitution near religious sites and other locations in city. The raid was prompted by citizen complaints and rising HIV cases in the area.
The police team, led by Ivan Diengdoh, Addl. SP (Ops), conducted the operation at locations including Khyndai Lad, opposite MBOSE office, and IGP Point. One Swift Dzire and two scooties were seized from the accused.
A case has been registered under the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act and Meghalaya Police Act. The police assure strict action against those involved in prostitution and human trafficking.
The move comes amid concerns over rising HIV cases in Meghalaya, with the state recording nearly 900 new detections annually. The government has launched a Rs 25 crore initiative to boost testing, treatment, and outreach programmes . .
