Hyderabad: A late-night operation led by young IPS officer Riti Raj has drawn widespread attention after police uncovered alleged immoral activities and multiple regulatory violations at a popular pub in Hyderabad’s Kukatpally area.
The operation, conducted in the early hours of Sunday, targeted Kings and Queens Pub, also known as Club Masti, following intelligence inputs regarding suspicious activities at the establishment.
According to police officials, the raid resulted in the detention of nine staff members and the registration of a fresh case under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Prevention of Immoral Trafficking Act.
The action has also brought the spotlight on IPS officer Riti Raj, who is known within the Telangana Police for her proactive policing style and field-oriented approach.
Surprise Raid Follows Personal Verification
Officials said DCP Riti Raj personally carried out a discreet verification exercise before authorising and leading the operation.
The raid was conducted at the Kukatpally-based pub after police received credible information suggesting alleged solicitation and prostitution-related activities on the premises.
Investigators alleged that the establishment was operating in violation of multiple regulations, including:
- Allegedly facilitating immoral activities.
- Operating beyond permitted hours.
- Serving food and liquor in violation of prescribed norms.
- Functioning without a valid police No Objection Certificate (NOC).
- Failing to implement adequate measures to prevent entry of minors.
Police also suspect that women were allegedly being used to attract male customers and encourage excessive spending at the establishment.
Nine Staff Members Taken Into Custody
During the operation, police detained nine staff members, including four women and five men.
All detainees were shifted to KPHB Police Station for legal proceedings and questioning.
According to investigators, the pub had previously faced multiple criminal cases during 2025. Authorities allege that despite earlier enforcement actions, violations continued.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Who Is IPS Officer Riti Raj?
A Young IPS Officer from the Telangana Cadre
Riti Raj is a 2018-batch Indian Police Service officer of the Telangana cadre and currently serves as Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Kukatpally Zone, under the Cyberabad Metropolitan Police.
Over the years, she has built a reputation as a hands-on police officer known for strict law enforcement and active field supervision.
Educational Background
Riti Raj completed her schooling in 2010 before pursuing legal studies.
She graduated with a BA LLB degree from the National Law University, Delhi, one of India’s leading law institutions, in 2016.
During her college years, she briefly interned at a law firm. However, the experience reportedly convinced her that corporate legal practice was not the career path she wanted to pursue.
Instead, she chose to prepare for the Civil Services Examination and enter public service.
UPSC Success in First Attempt
One of the most remarkable aspects of her journey is that she cleared the highly competitive UPSC Civil Services Examination on her first attempt.
Unlike many aspirants who spend years preparing full-time, she balanced her UPSC preparation alongside demanding academic commitments at law school.
After successfully clearing the examination, she joined the Indian Police Service in 2018 and was allotted the Telangana cadre.
Police Training and Early Career
Following her selection, Riti Raj underwent professional training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in Hyderabad.
Her field training included district attachments and assignments with the elite anti-Naxal force, the Greyhounds.
These assignments provided her exposure to both law-and-order management and specialised policing operations.
Key Assignments in Telangana Police
Before assuming charge of the Kukatpally Zone, Riti Raj served in several important positions within Telangana Police.
Among her notable assignments was her tenure as DCP of the Madhapur Zone, a region that includes major IT and commercial hubs in Hyderabad.
She is currently responsible for policing the Kukatpally Zone, one of the busiest urban jurisdictions under Cyberabad Police.
In addition, she is heading a Special Investigation Team probe involving Bandi Bhageerath Sai.
Reputation for Hands-On Policing
Riti Raj has gained recognition for her direct involvement in field operations and emphasis on accountability.
The recent Hyderabad pub raid has reinforced that image, as she reportedly conducted preliminary verification herself before launching the operation.
Her policing philosophy emphasizes close monitoring of field units and proactive intervention against illegal activities.
Colleagues describe her as an officer who prefers ground-level engagement rather than relying solely on reports and briefings.
Investigation Continues
The Hyderabad pub case remains under investigation, with police examining alleged violations related to licensing norms, operating procedures and suspected immoral trafficking activities.
Authorities have stated that further legal action will depend on evidence gathered during the ongoing probe.
Meanwhile, the operation has once again highlighted the role of young IPS officers like Riti Raj in leading high-profile enforcement actions and strengthening regulatory compliance in urban areas.
