In a significant crackdown on an alleged blackmail and forced conversion racket operating through gymnasiums, Mirzapur police have arrested six individuals over the past three days, with five gyms being sealed as part of the investigation. The operation unfolded after two women filed formal complaints, leading to a multi-team police response that exposed a disturbing pattern of exploitation.
Police Action Following Women's Complaints
According to Mirzapur Superintendent of Police Somen Barma, the case originated when two women lodged First Information Reports (FIRs) with the Kotwali police station three days ago. The complainants alleged that after joining local gyms and developing relationships with the owners and trainers, they were subjected to blackmail and pressured to change their religion.
"Police formed four special teams to investigate the matter thoroughly and apprehend the accused," stated SP Barma on Thursday. The swift police response highlights the seriousness with which authorities are treating these allegations of coercion and exploitation.
Initial Arrests and Gym Sealing
The investigation initially led to the arrest of four individuals on Tuesday and Wednesday. Those apprehended were identified as Mohammad Sheikh Ali Alam from Natwan Millat Nagar, Faizal Khan from Gosai Talab, Zaheer, and Shadab. Police confirmed that all arrested men belong to the 30-40 years age group.
Following these arrests, authorities took decisive action by sealing five gymnasiums believed to be connected to the racket. The sealed establishments include Khwaja Garib Nawaz (KGN)-1, KGN-2, KGN-3, Iron Fire, and another unnamed gym facility.
Dramatic Encounter Leads to Kingpin's Arrest
As the investigation progressed, police focused on locating the alleged mastermind, Farid Ahmad (28), from Pakki Sarai Ghantaghar. On Thursday, Dehat Kotwali police and the special operation group received intelligence that Ahmad was hiding in the Khandajafall area.
"When police cordoned off the area, Ahmad attempted to escape after opening fire at the police team," explained SP Barma. "In retaliatory action by police, he suffered a bullet injury in the leg and was subsequently arrested."
Authorities recovered a firearm, cartridges, and a mobile phone from Ahmad before rushing him to a hospital for medical treatment. Later that same afternoon, police arrested another accused, Irshad Khan (40), on similar charges, bringing the total number of arrests to six.
Modus Operandi of the Accused
Additional Superintendent of Police (City) Nitesh Singh provided disturbing details about the alleged methods employed by the accused. According to the investigation, gym owners and trainers would develop relationships with female members, then use intimate videos recorded during these relationships as blackmail material to force religious conversion.
One complainant revealed particularly troubling details, alleging that trainer Sheikh Ali not only demanded money from her but later began pressuring her to adopt his religion. She claimed her photos were taken while wearing a burqa, she was instructed to offer namaz at home, and was even taken to a dargah for conversion purposes.
Broader Investigation Unfolds
The investigation has revealed that the accused may have targeted additional women and girls beyond the two who filed complaints. "Evidence collected hinted that the accused had targeted more women and girls besides the complainants," noted investigators, "although no other could show courage to complain or lodge FIR against them."
Police are examining multiple angles in their ongoing investigation, including:
- Call detail records of the trainers to establish communication patterns
- Sources of funds used to establish the gym facilities
- Income sources of trainers, whose maximum salary of Rs 15,000 contrasts with their possession of high-end smartphones and expensive branded clothing
- The buildings housing the gyms that have come under scrutiny
- Whether any women trainers were employed at these gyms
The case continues to develop as authorities work to uncover the full extent of this alleged racket and ensure justice for the victims while preventing similar exploitation in the future.
