Gym Owner, Brother Arrested; CCTV Footage Allegedly Used for Extortion and Threats
A shocking case of alleged sexual assault, blackmail, and extortion has surfaced from Uttar Pradesh’s Bareilly, where a woman doctor accused a gym operator of drugging and sexually assaulting her before using CCTV footage of the incident to threaten and extort money from her for nearly two years.
Police have arrested the gym operator and his brother in connection with the case and sealed the gym located in the Civil Lines area as part of the ongoing investigation.
Doctor Alleges Drink Was Laced With Intoxicant
According to the complaint filed by the victim, she had joined the gym in May 2024. During this period, the gym operator allegedly gained her trust and later mixed an intoxicating substance into her pre-workout drink, causing her to lose consciousness.
The accused allegedly sexually assaulted her inside the gym premises and recorded the act using CCTV cameras installed at the facility.
The victim stated that the accused later threatened to release the footage publicly if she did not comply with his demands, leading to prolonged mental harassment and repeated exploitation.
Extortion Demands Increased From ₹10 Lakh to ₹50 Lakh
Police sources revealed that the accused allegedly extorted lakhs of rupees from the doctor over time. The gym operator’s brother was also allegedly involved in the conspiracy and helped facilitate the blackmail operation.
After the victim stopped visiting the gym in January 2026, the accused reportedly contacted her again and threatened to sell the video clip. Initially demanding ₹10 lakh, the accused later escalated the amount to ₹50 lakh, according to the complaint.
Investigators further stated that the accused allegedly collected detailed information about the victim’s assets and family background. He reportedly pressured her to sell jewellery and property to arrange the money.
Victim’s Family Allegedly Monitored to Create Fear
The complaint also alleged that associates linked to the accused tracked the movements of the doctor and her family members. These individuals allegedly monitored their daily activities and sent photographs to intimidate the family.
The matter came to light after the victim informed her husband about the alleged harassment and threats. Family members then approached the police and lodged a formal complaint.
Police Recover Mobile Phones, Pen Drives and Weapon
During the investigation, police reportedly recovered two pen drives, two mobile phones including an iPhone and an Oppo device, nine stimulant vials, six injection vials, a revolver with three cartridges, and ₹10,000 allegedly obtained through blackmail.
Authorities have also seized and sealed the gym’s CCTV DVR for forensic examination.
During interrogation, the gym operator allegedly admitted to befriending women at the gym, intoxicating them, recording videos, and using the footage for extortion. Police said his brother also admitted to assisting in luring victims.
Cybercrime Expert Warns About Growing Digital Blackmail Cases
Speaking on the issue, noted cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Triveni Singh said such crimes increasingly involve a combination of technology and psychological intimidation.
He noted that victims often hesitate to report such incidents due to fear of social stigma and public exposure, allowing exploitation to continue for long periods.
Safety Advisory for Gym-Goers
Experts have advised people to remain cautious in private spaces such as gyms and fitness centres. Individuals are urged to avoid consuming drinks or supplements from unfamiliar sources and immediately report suspicious behaviour to authorities.
