Surat : Hidden Camera Found in Women’s Washroom at K’s Charcoal Restaurant

Surat | Gujarat — In a deeply disturbing incident that has outraged Surat, a hidden mobile camera was discovered inside the women’s washroom of the popular K’s Charcoal Restaurant in Piplod, one of the city’s most upscale areas. The shocking breach of privacy was uncovered when a vigilant female customer spotted a suspicious device on the ventilation grille and found it was secretly recording.

Her alarmed screams drew the attention of diners and staff, triggering chaos inside the restaurant. The management immediately alerted the Umra police, who rushed to the spot and seized the device. By evening, police had arrested 30-year-old cleaner Surendra Rana from Jharkhand, who has worked at the restaurant for two years.

Victim’s Alertness Exposed the Crime

According to police, the woman’s quick thinking prevented a potential scandal from escalating further. “She climbed onto the commode to check closely and was horrified to find a mobile phone fixed on the grille, actively recording. Her alertness exposed the crime before it could go undetected,” said a senior investigating officer.

Police Action and Arrest

During questioning of staff, one cleaner tried to flee the scene, arousing further suspicion. CCTV footage from the restaurant confirmed that the last person inside the washroom before the incident was Rana. His movements matched the duration of the recording found on the phone.

“Based on CCTV evidence and other technical details, we arrested accused Surendra Rana. He has confessed to placing the mobile phone. We also recovered half of a spy camera from his residence, which suggests premeditation,” said DCP Vijaysinh Gurjar.

The investigation also revealed that Rana’s phone contained objectionable videos and an extensive history of pornographic content, indicating deliberate intent. His mobile has been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) for a detailed digital probe.

Serious Questions Over Women’s Safety

Police are now investigating whether the missing part of the spy camera was used elsewhere and if others are involved in the racket. The case has shaken the city’s hospitality sector, raising urgent questions about security in public washrooms.

“More than 50 people work at the restaurant, and around 40 are men. We have checked their phones, but the probe continues. Our priority is to ensure no other woman has been victimized,” Gurjar added.

Locals and women’s rights activists have expressed anger, demanding stricter checks in restaurants and malls. “If this can happen in a posh area like Piplod, imagine the risks women face elsewhere. Authorities must enforce surveillance and accountability in public establishments,” said a social activist.

In an official statement, the management stated, “K’s Charcoal is deeply shocked and saddened by the recent incident.We sincerely regret and strongly condemn this act, which goes against the trust and values we stand for. The management, owners, and even our families use the same facilities.We are standing in full support of the Surat Police Department and are fully cooperating in the investigation of the arrested staff member.”

Though all our staff members had been police-verified, we are now initiating a fresh, thorough screening of every individual. To reassure our guests, we have also taken the decision to temporarily close the restaurant until these safety measures are completed.The privacy and safety of our guests is our highest priority, and we promise to rebuild your trust with stronger safeguards than ever before, the statement said.