In a joint operation by the Warangal police, the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU), and the health department, a group involved in conducting illegal prenatal sex determination tests and abortions has been apprehended. The gang, which included private and government doctors, operated across various locations in the Warangal district, collaborating with certain hospitals. The crackdown resulted in the arrest of 18 individuals, including four doctors and medical staff.
Arrested Individuals Charged under PCPNDT Act
The arrested individuals, including the prime accused Vemula Praveen and his wife Sandhyarani, have been charged under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act (PCPNDT) of 1994 and other relevant legislation. The operation led to the seizure of sex-determination scanning machines, 18 cellphones, and Rs 73,000 in cash from the accused.
Extensive Network and Involvement of Ayurvedic Doctors
Investigations revealed the extensive network of Vemula Praveen, which involved collaborations with private and public hospital management, registered medical practitioners (RMPs), private medical practitioners (PMPs), and other medical personnel in Narsampet, Nekkonda, Hanamkonda, Warangal, and surrounding areas. Illegal abortions were conducted at four private hospitals within the district. Shockingly, even Ayurvedic doctors were found to be involved in performing these abortions.
Expansion to Rural Areas and Approximate Number of Illegal Abortions
The accused and their agents expanded their operations to rural regions, using portable devices for sex determination tests. The police estimate that the gang may have conducted around 200 illegal abortions, with each procedure reportedly carrying a price tag ranging from Rs 30,000 to Rs 50,000.
Successful Operation with Infiltration by Woman Sub-Inspector
Notably, the police successfully infiltrated the gang by deploying a woman sub-inspector who posed as someone seeking an abortion. This undercover operation proved instrumental in dismantling the illegal sex determination and abortion racket.
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