Cops raid lodge late at night and arrest 24 people

THANE: Twelve couples have been arrested by the Thane crime branch on alleged charge of indulging in immoral activities during a raid conducted in Kinara Lodge near Talopali area of the city.
Led by senior officials of the crime branch, the police team which also included the city police conducted a raid between 10 pm to 12 am on Tuesday and arrested 24 people.
It is believed that a beer bar was functioning here and was making use of the services of the lodge to lure customers. According to residents, three schools are functioning in the vicinity and they have raised questions as how a beer bar was allowed to operate despite restrictions on bars and wine shops to operate near educational institutions and place of worship.
During interrogation, all women who were present in the rooms at that time are said to have admitted to their involvement in flesh trade. The women have been referred to the social branch department for further investigation and counselling.
Senior Police Inspector of Crime Branch, Vithal More was unavailable for his comments.