Mirzapur Gyms Linked to Forced Conversion; Kingpin Nabbed

Mirzapur police apprehended a man following a shootout near Khadanjafall, who is accused in a blackmail and forced conversion scheme. This arrest occurred just days after four other individuals, including gym owners and trainers, were taken into custody on similar charges. The investigation was initiated after two women lodged complaints detailing allegations of blackmail and coercion to convert their religion.

Authorities have sealed five gyms connected to the racket as the probe expands to uncover the full extent of the operation. The alleged kingpin, Farid Ahmad, was injured in the leg during a retaliatory action by police when he attempted to flee. Police recovered a firearm, cartridges, and a mobile phone from his possession.

Further investigation revealed that gym operators developed relationships with female members, then used compromising videos to extort and pressure them into religious conversion. One complainant detailed instances of demands for money, forced prayer, and visits to a dargah for conversion. Efforts are ongoing to trace the financial sources of the gyms and the trainers involved.