In the district of Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, a startling discovery was made when a woman, under distress, dialed the women’s helpline 1090, alleging suspicious activities under the cover of a gym. The ensuing police investigation, although initially without evidence, took a sharp turn amidst a peculiar interrogation.
Mohammed Sheikh Ali became the focal point when questioned by the police. Initially denying all accusations, his defenses crumbled when a revealing password-protected folder was discovered on his mobile phone, altering the entire course of the investigation.
Find Out More: Mirzapur: Encounter with a Gym Operator Accused of Blackmailing Hindu Girls, Organizer Arrested
Folder Reveals Photos of Over 50 Women
The moment the police cracked the folder, they found themselves confronted by images and videos of over 50 women. These included photos from various travels and personal events, some depicting women donning the Burqa, accompanied by accused individuals from different gyms.
Armed with digital evidence, the police widened the scope of their operation, targeting several gyms across Mirzapur, resulting in a wave of arrests. New voices joined the investigation, women stepping forward to share their stories while maintaining anonymity.
Alleged Network Through Multiple Gyms Uncovered
The racket allegedly found roots in fitness establishments such as KGN 1, KGN 2.0, KGN 3, Iron Fire, and Fitness Club. Six arrests have already been made, capturing the attention of the public as a police officer was among those detained. Meanwhile, fugitives Imran and Lucky, with bounties of 25,000 INR each hanging over their heads, remain at large.
Initially, only two women had lodged official complaints, but whispers from 25 to 30 women found their way to the police indirectly. Investigations uncovered that the accused preyed on women from affluent backgrounds, ensnaring them in a complex web of deceit.
No-Charge Gym Training as a Lure
The implicated individuals allegedly baited women with offers of complimentary gym sessions. During these sessions, numerous photos were casually taken and phone numbers were exchanged. Initial conversations dwelled on fitness, gradually giving way to more personal subjects.
Once a woman showed interest, the relationship was intensified, with outings used as opportunities to deepen connections. Reports unveiled attempts to influence the women towards Islam subtly during visits to markets, temples, mausoleums, and beyond, having them wear Burqas.
Threats, Financial Coercion, and Conversion Pressure
Post alleged exploitation, compromising images and videos were preserved as tools of intimidation, pressuring women for money or conversion as leverage. Fearing repercussions, some women did accede, while others succumbed to conversion.
SSP Somen Verma articulated that the mobile folder’s discovery provided irrefutable evidence, leading to the recovery of vehicles used in the women’s transport. The incident has prompted a thorough investigation with local communities and Hindu organizations rallying to question gym activities. The police continue to probe deeply into these unsettling revelations.
