Man held for blackmailing minor with explicit videos, forcing conversion

According to police, Shoaib Akhtar, is a native of Gonda district and runs a barber’s shop at Chhathamil Crossing on Raitha Road.

According to the complaint lodged by the 15-year-old girl on Sunday, the accused contacted her on Instagram about two years ago, introducing himself as “Saurabh Singh.” Police said he gradually gained her trust and developed close relations with her.

The victim alleged that during this period, the accused molested her and recorded objectionable photos and videos. When she discovered his actual identity and stopped communicating, he threatened to make the content public unless she changed her religion.

When she refused, the accused allegedly circulated the explicit material online, leading to the complaint.

Police sources said Shoaib did the same with other girls as well. They said objectionable photos and videos of 13-14 girls were found on his phone, which are being examined.

ADCP North Zone, Twinkle Jain, said the accused was arrested and appropriate legal action will be taken based on the evidence collected, and all the complaints against the accused will be probed.