Jaisalmer: Three hotels linked to the alleged kidnapping, trafficking, and sexual exploitation of a 13-year-old girl in Sriganganagar were demolished Wednesday in a joint operation by the Jaisalmer district administration and police. The action was carried out using JCBs and hydraulic machines under tight security arrangements.The demolition drive took place in the presence of district collector Amit Yadav and SP Hari Shankar. SDM Nayan Gautam, Additional Superintendent of Police Deepak Sharma, Circle Officer City Vishnu Khatri, Kotwali police officials and a large deployment of police and administrative personnel were also present at the spot.Authorities indicated that the swift action aimed to convey a strong message against illegal activities and law violations.Yadav said inspections of hotels, guest houses and similar establishments would continue, and strict action would be taken against those found violating rules or engaging in illegal activities. He said ensuring the safety of women and girls remains the administration’s top priority.The hotels that were demolished included Hotel Khungar, Hotel Joy Inn and Hotel Sapphire, while additional establishments connected to the case were also sealed.By Wednesday morning, the total number of arrests in the case had risen to 14, with police noting that further arrests remain possible as the investigation continues.The case came to light after the victim’s mother approached the Riico Police Chowki on June 22, reporting that her daughter had been missing since June 18. Following a tip-off, a team from the Sadar Police Station raided Hotel Joy Inn, where they successfully recovered the minor and detained the hotel operator and two employees for questioning. The victim revealed during counseling by the Women’s Police Station team that kidnappers had sold her to hotel operators, where she endured sexual assault.Following the complaint, a case was registered under relevant legal provisions, and the investigation was assigned to DSP Kailashdan of the Women’s Crime Investigation Cell.Police said a Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by additional SPs Deepak Kumar and Neelam Chaudhary, was constituted with officers from local police units, the district special team, cyber team and FSL Team. Investigators are examining technical evidence, CCTV footage and other forensic material collected during the probe.
