Cops, NGO rescue 12 children from Mankhud

The Mankhurd police, along with an NGO, raided Mandala in Mankhurd and rescued 12 children who were forced to work in various small establishments in the area. The police have arrested 10 shop owners in connection with the case and are looking for another accused.

According to Mankhurd police, NGO Pratham had submitted a written complaint with the deputy commissioner of police, zone VI, of alleged child labour in the area. Acting on the complaint, a team of Mankhurd police officials, NGO workers and officers from the Social Service (SS) branch of Mumbai police raided Mandala on Saturday morning.

"We were informed by the NGO that they have specific information about children being forced to work in paan shops, pani puri stalls and small eateries in the area. We formed a team along with the NGO and the SS branch and raided the area. At least 12 children have been rescued," said police sub-inspector Vishal Mane from Mankhurd police station. Mane added: "We have arrested 10 shop owners and all of them will be produced before the court on Sunday."