18 detained as Basti police bustssex racket operating in a house

Lucknow: Police on Friday busted a sex racket operating out of a residential property near Madwanagar toll plaza under the Kotwali area in Basti district.
As many as 18 individuals, including nine women, were detained.
Police said the preliminary investigation suggests that the house was used regularly for immoral trafficking. They also recovered a large quantity of objectionable materials from the site. One of the accused is said to be the owner of the house, which is registered in his wife's name.
"All 18 individuals were taken into custody and are being questioned. Initial findings confirm the presence of an organised sex racket," said CO City Satyendra Bhushan Tiwari.
The sudden raid caught those inside off guard. Several men and women were allegedly found in compromising situations and reportedly tried to flee, but the premises were already surrounded by police. Female constables were part of the team that conducted a thorough search of all rooms.
"All 18 individuals were taken into custody and are being questioned. Initial findings confirm the presence of an organised sex racket," said CO City Satyendra Bhushan Tiwari.
"Legal action is being taken under relevant sections, and strict measures will follow based on the evidence. No one involved will be spared," he added.
Police are now probing the larger network behind the racket and are working to identify those who may have facilitated or benefited from the operation.