The alleged mastermind of running a gang involved in sexual exploitation of women, religious conversion, and blackmail in Mirzapur district, Uttar Pradesh, was arrested at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International
Airport while attempting to flee the country on Saturday, police said.
The accused identified as Imran, is a resident of Mirzapur, owns a chain of gyms called KGM Gym One across the district. Police said he operated the racket through these gyms, which were managed by his relatives.
The police said that Imran was attempting to fly to Dubai with his family from Terminal 3 of Delhi’s IGI Airport when the Immigration Department intercepted him and handed him over to Delhi Police. Mirzapur SSP/DIG Somen Barma told reporters that Imran was the chief architect of the gang and that authorities had received prior intelligence about his escape attempt.
A lookout notice had been issued for him at all airports and seaports across the country. After his capture, UP Police officers traveled to Delhi and secured a transit remand to bring him back to Mirzapur. Barma added that a cash reward of Rs 25,000 had been announced for his arrest.
Imran has 65 cases registered against him, most of them linked to fraud. Police have so far arrested six people in connection with the alleged sexual exploitation and religious conversion racket that was allegedly operated under the guise of a gym, with Imran becoming the seventh accused to be taken into custody.
Among those arrested is a GRP constable posted in Bhadohi district, who has been suspended. The case came to light when two women filed a complaint at Kotwali Dehat police station in Mirzapur on January 20.
During the initial investigation, police made some shocking discoveries and formed four teams. So far, police have sealed four gyms, and Barma said there are 47 gyms operating in the district.
All are being investigated to check their ownership, the identity of trainers, and whether female trainers are employed, as many women go to gyms for exercise, police said.
(With inputs from PTI)
