Udupi police bust prostitution racket in lodge; woman rescued, accused arrested

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, Aug 25, 2025: Police raided a lodge in Udupi town on Sunday and rescued a woman who was allegedly forced into prostitution under the guise of being offered a job.

Police said inspector Manjunath Badiger had received a complaint that a prostitution racket was operating from a lodge in Moodanidambur village. Acting on the tip-off, a team raided the lodge and found the victim in a room on the second floor.

During inquiry, the woman revealed that she was brought to Udupi on August 19 by one Sharath alias Mohammad Fayaz, who had promised her employment but instead booked a lodge room and coerced her into prostitution.

The victim was rescued, and a case was registered at the Women’s Police Station. The accused has been charged under Crime No. 37/2025 for offences under Section 143, 3(5) of BNS, and Sections 3, 4, 5, and 6 of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act.