AI obscene videos, blackmail and religious conversion: GRP cop, gym owners busted in UP

Lucknow/IBNS: Six people, including a Government Railway Police (GRP) head constable, have been arrested in connection with an alleged gym-based syndicate involved in forced religious conversions in Mirzapur district of Uttar Pradesh, media reports said.

IBNS • 24 Jan 2026, 09:30 am

Police said the accused ran an AI-backed blackmail racket that targeted around 30 women, coercing them into religious conversion using AI-generated obscene videos and images.

The syndicate is believed to have been active since 2021.

According to investigators, most of the victims were Hindu women. AI-generated videos and photographs recovered from the accused have been cited as crucial evidence in the case.

Those arrested include GRP head constable Irshad Khan (40) and gym owners/trainers Mohammad Sheikh Ali Alam (31), Faizal Khan (34), Zaheer (32), Shadab (36) and Farid Ahmed (28).

Farid Ahmed, identified as the owner of one of the gyms, was arrested following an encounter after he allegedly opened fire at police during a raid, officials said.

The GRP constable is accused of providing logistical support and protection to the gang. Police said the racket came to light after two women lodged separate complaints earlier this month.

All five gyms operated by the group have been sealed till February 27 as part of the ongoing investigation.