Surat Gym Trainer Arrested for Rs.5 Lakh Blackmail Plot

Surat | Gujarat — A chilling case of manipulation, blackmail and extortion has surfaced in Surat, where a gym trainer allegedly trapped a married woman in a relationship and later threatened her family for money. The incident, which has sent shockwaves across the city, has once again raised serious concerns about safety and professional boundaries in fitness centres.

The accused, identified as Shabbir Asgarbhai Tunkwala, has been arrested by the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Surat Police after the victim’s husband approached authorities with a detailed complaint.

According to investigators, the 45-year-old woman from Pal area had been visiting a gym in the Citylight locality nearly seven years ago, where the accused worked as a trainer. Over time, he allegedly developed a close relationship with her under the pretext of coaching and emotional support.

Police say the relationship later turned into a nightmare for the family.

When the woman’s husband discovered the situation and attempted to resolve the matter, the accused allegedly shifted to extortion. He threatened the husband, claiming he possessed private photos and videos of the woman and demanded ₹5 lakh to keep them from being circulated on social media.

The situation escalated dramatically two and a half months ago near Bhulka Bhavan School, when the accused allegedly attacked the husband. Investigators say he smashed the victim’s bike glass and held sharp shards to his throat, forcing him to hand over ₹50,000 out of fear for his life. Despite receiving the money, the accused reportedly continued demanding more.

The turning point came after a public awareness drive by the police. On March 9, the SOG held a meeting with gym operators and trainers, warning them to maintain strict professional boundaries and avoid personal communication with female clients. The victim’s husband, after seeing the awareness messages, gathered courage and filed a complaint.

Within hours of registering the case, SOG teams tracked and arrested the accused using technical surveillance and local intelligence. He has been booked under serious charges that could lead to up to 10 years of imprisonment.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Rajdeepsinh Nakum issued a strong warning following the arrest. “We had already instructed gym operators that trainers must behave like teachers and remain within professional limits. Sending personal messages or forming relationships with women clients violates the code of conduct. Strict action will be taken against anyone who crosses the line,” he said.

He also urged other victims to come forward. “If any woman is being blackmailed or trapped by someone, do not panic. Contact the nearest police station or SOG. We will provide full support while keeping identities confidential.”