Kolkata Police rescues minor from sex trafficking, 2 arrested in Chitpur raid

On 13th December, the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU) of the Detective Department, Kolkata, conducted a targeted raid at 21/H/39/1 Raja Manindra Road, Chitpur, under Chitpur Police Station. During the operation, a minor girl was rescued from the premises where she was reportedly being held for the purpose of sexual exploitation. The rescue followed information gathered by the police, leading to the registration of a case based on the statement provided by the victim.

A specific case was filed at Chitpur Police Station under sections 61/96/143/144 of the Bengal Police Act, in addition to sections 4 and 17 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Further, the accused individuals are also charged under sections 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 of the Immoral Trafficking (Prevention) Act. The investigation was promptly taken up by the AHTU, which initiated legal proceedings to identify those responsible for the exploitation.

As part of the investigation, two individuals were arrested on the same day. Arpita Das (Saha), aged 22, and Souvik Saha, aged 33, both residents of the address where the victim was confined, were apprehended and charged with involvement in the trafficking operation. They are accused of harboring the minor for sexual exploitation and facilitating the trafficking activity. The two were presented before the 1st Additional District Judge in the POCSO Court at Sealdah on 14th December.

The police confirmed that further inquiries are being carried out to investigate the extent of the trafficking operation and to trace any other individuals or networks involved. Efforts are also underway to ensure the minor's safety and provide necessary legal and psychological support. The authorities have emphasized the severity of the crime and their commitment to addressing child exploitation and human trafficking in Kolkata.