Palghar, Maharashtra: In a significant crackdown on human trafficking, the Arnala Sagri Police arrested a 30-year-old woman, Afreen Saval Salim, for allegedly operating a prostitution racket and forcing young women into the sex trade in Palghar district.
A case has been registered with charges under various relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956. The arrest was made following a police raid at Daksh Farm House in Nalasopara (West) on May 13, 2025.
Police reports indicate that Afreen was exploiting at least three women, all from different localities in the Vasai-Virar region. The victims revealed that Afreen coerced them into prostitution by sending their photos to potential clients and arranging sexual encounters at local lodges and farmhouses.
The women were allegedly paid around ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per encounter, while Afreen pocketed a significant portion of the earnings.
Acting on a tip-off and surveillance, police raided the location and caught the operation in the act. Afreen was arrested the same night and remains in custody. The victims are being provided with counseling and support services.
Authorities are now probing further to identify others involved in the network and ensure protection and rehabilitation for the survivors.
