A peaceful coastal stretch near Vasai turned into the center of a crime investigation earlier this week when police uncovered a shocking sex racket operating out of a farmhouse. The operation, carried out by the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU), led to the arrest of a 33-year-old man involved in trafficking and the successful rescue of a woman who was being forced into prostitution.
The farmhouse in question, known locally as Summer Farmhouse, is located beside the more popular Mini Goa Farmhouse—a favorite spot among locals and tourists alike. It was here, hidden behind the beauty of nature and tranquility, that this unlawful activity was quietly taking place.
Police Receive a Tip-Off
The entire case came to light after Police Inspector Saurabhi Pawar from the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit received credible information about a sex racket being operated from this location. What made the tip especially serious was the precision with which it pointed to the involvement of one individual—Sunil Manoj Parade, a resident of Bhui Gaon.
Inspector Pawar, along with her team, quickly devised a plan to catch the accused in the act. They decided to send a decoy—a fake customer—who would contact the accused and arrange a meeting at the farmhouse. This tactic is often used in cases of human trafficking and prostitution to gather direct evidence before making an arrest.
The Sting Operation
On July 16, 2025, the plan was put into motion. The decoy customer reached out to Sunil Parade and was invited to a room at the farmhouse. As the deal was finalized and Parade was preparing to hand over the woman for the purpose of commercial sex, the police team swiftly moved in and caught him red-handed.
Parade was arrested immediately. The woman, who was being exploited, was rescued and taken to safety. She is currently under the care of authorities, who are offering her the necessary support and counseling.
Legal Action Taken
Following the arrest, a formal case was registered against Sunil Parade under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 143(2), which deals with unlawful assembly, and Sections 4 and 5 of the PITA (Prevention of Immoral Trafficking Act), which cover procuring a person for prostitution and living on the earnings of prostitution.
According to officers involved, this is not just an isolated incident but possibly a link in a larger chain of organized trafficking activities happening discreetly in semi-urban coastal zones like Vasai.
Officers Behind the Successful Operation
The operation was carried out under the supervision of Deputy Commissioner of Police Sandeep Doifode and Assistant Commissioner of Police Madan Ballal. The action team on the ground was led by Inspector Saurabhi Pawar and included Sub-Inspector Umesh Gavai, Lady Police Constable Sakshi Doifode, and officers Roshan Kini, Mahendra Shetye, and Supriya Tiwale.
Their swift and coordinated action not only stopped an ongoing crime but also likely prevented further exploitation of other victims.
The Bigger Picture
The raid has exposed how some local properties in otherwise quiet and recreational areas are being misused for illegal purposes. Farmhouses like the one in question are often rented out for parties or weekend getaways. However, in this case, the same premises were allegedly used as a base for immoral trafficking activities.
AHTU officials believe that such places are chosen deliberately due to their isolated nature, making them difficult to monitor. Locals and property owners are being urged to stay alert and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
What’s Next?
The police are now probing whether more individuals are linked to this case. Investigations are underway to trace if there are more victims or if a network exists behind this one man. The rescued woman will be provided with legal and psychological support to help her rebuild her life.
Authorities have also signaled that they will conduct more surprise checks in and around similar farmhouse properties to ensure no other such illegal operations are being run. The aim is to make Vasai safer for everyone—residents and visitors alike.
Public Reaction
The news of the bust has sent shockwaves across the local community. Residents of Bhui Gaon and the Vasai beach area are both shocked and relieved that the police acted swiftly and efficiently. Several people have come forward on social media expressing gratitude to the police force and urging stronger monitoring of rental properties, especially in isolated coastal stretches.
Conclusion
The raid on Summer Farmhouse has once again highlighted the dark underbelly of human trafficking and exploitation that continues to exist even in the most unsuspecting corners of society. Thanks to timely action by the Vasai Police, another victim was saved, and a criminal was put behind bars.
This incident serves as a reminder that vigilance and proactive law enforcement are crucial in combating such hidden crimes. More importantly, it underlines the need for community awareness and cooperation to help identify and prevent such exploitative practices.
If you suspect any such activity in your neighborhood, you are urged to report it to the nearest police station or the AHTU helpline. Your one step could save a life.
