Allegations of Blackmail by Fake Journalists and Digital Content Creators Spread from Bishalgarh to Agartala

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, June 26, 2026

Serious allegations have surfaced that individuals posing as journalists and digital content creators are allegedly running an organized blackmail racket in parts of Tripura, with reports suggesting that the practice, first highlighted in Bishalgarh, has now spread to several areas of the state capital, Agartala.

According to the allegations, some self-styled mobile journalists and digital content creators secretly capture photographs and videos of ordinary people in public places and private establishments, including government offices, tourist lodges, guest houses, hotels, restaurants, and parks. The material is then allegedly used to threaten victims and extort money by warning that the videos or photographs would otherwise be circulated on social media.

The allegations further claim that children, teenagers, and young couples have increasingly become targets. It is alleged that when young people visit parks, hotels, restaurants, or guest houses with friends, hidden recordings are made without their knowledge. Victims are reportedly contacted later and asked to pay substantial sums of money to prevent the release of the footage.

Even more serious allegations suggest that if victims refuse to pay, the original videos are allegedly manipulated using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to create misleading or objectionable content before being uploaded to social media platforms. Complainants claim that such edited videos are deliberately circulated to damage reputations while also generating online engagement and advertising revenue.

According to the allegations, several young men, women, and students who had visited College Tilla Park in Agartala with friends recently became victims of such practices. It is claimed that objectionable edited videos were uploaded to social media after they refused to pay the demanded money. There are also allegations that in cases where victims did pay, the same videos were repeatedly used to demand additional money, turning the victims into targets of continuous extortion.

Residents and business owners have expressed concern over the alleged misuse of journalism and digital content creation as a cover for criminal activities. They argue that such actions not only traumatize victims but also tarnish the reputation of genuine journalists and ethical digital creators who follow professional standards.

Citizens have urged the police and cyber crime authorities to investigate these allegations thoroughly and take strict legal action against anyone found involved in blackmail, extortion, unauthorized recording, AI-based manipulation of digital content, or impersonation of journalists.

Disclaimer: The allegations mentioned in this report are based on claims made by complainants and have not been independently verified. The individuals or groups accused have not publicly responded to these allegations. Any determination of criminal liability rests with the competent investigating authorities and the courts.

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