Police Conduct Late-Night Raid at Jorhat Hotel, Detain 15 Individuals
Police Operation at Orchid Hotel
Police personnel escort women detained during the late night raid. (AT Photo)
Jorhat, June 16: In a late-night operation, Jorhat Police raided a luxury hotel located near National Highway 37, resulting in the detention of 15 individuals, which included seven women and eight men.
As per police reports, the raid at Orchid Hotel was initiated following credible information indicating that the establishment was allegedly involved in activities related to a suspected prostitution ring.
Abhishek Kumar Yadav, the Additional Superintendent of Police for Jorhat's Crime Branch, informed the media that the women taken into custody are currently being regarded as potential victims until further investigation clarifies their status.
“The operation was executed based on reliable intelligence regarding illegal activities at the hotel. Seven women were located on the premises, and we are treating them as victims until the investigation concludes and any evidence against them is established,” the official stated.
Investigators are also looking into claims that a network operating from the hotel may have been involved in trafficking women to various locations across Upper Assam and adjacent districts.
However, police have emphasized that these allegations are still under investigation, and definitive conclusions will only be made after thorough evidence examination.
Authorities reported that several items pertinent to the investigation were seized from the hotel.
The detained men are currently being interrogated as part of the ongoing investigation, with their specific roles yet to be determined.
“Eight men were also apprehended during the raid. They are considered persons of interest for the investigation. Their involvement will be clarified only after a comprehensive inquiry and evidence review,” he added.
Police confirmed that evidence collection and forensic documentation were conducted during the operation.
“We are in the process of seizing and analyzing evidence obtained from the hotel rooms and other areas of the premises. The operation was carried out due to reasonable suspicion of unlawful activities occurring there,” the official remarked.
Authorities suspect that more individuals may be connected to this case and have not dismissed the possibility of further actions as the investigation unfolds.
Police have assured that the investigation will adhere to legal protocols and that appropriate measures will be taken against anyone found culpable.