Zakir Naik's 'IRF' converted many Christians, Hindus to Islam?

Mumbai: Zakir Naik's Islamic Research Foundation has converted around 800 people to Islam by paying them a hefty sum from the donations made to the organisation from across the world, according to reports.

This was revealed by IRF's guest relation officer Rizwan Khan, who along with Arshid Qureshi was arrested by Maharashtra anti-terrorism squad (ATS) and Kerala Police during a joint operation last week.

If the alleged conversions are found to be done forcibly, Zakir Naik, who is already facing the heat over his controversial speeches, may further land in deep trouble.

It is being learnt that the duo would persuade prisoners and criminals to convert to Islam after providing them financial and legal help.

They also used to target college students, who were allegedly brainwashed for conversion.

Several documents have been seized from Rizwan, which reveal that many Christians and Hindus have also been converted to Muslim.

A case under IPC Sections 120 B (criminal conspiracy) and 153 A (promoting enmity between groups) as well as under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act was registered against them in Kochi.

The arrest took place after a police complaint was raised by Ebin Abraham, brother of Kochi resident, Merin alias Mariyam, who along with her husband, is reported to be missing and is alleged to have joined the Islamic State.

Ebin Jacob (25), the brother of Merin alias Mariam had told police that there was an attempt to forcibly convert him to Islam and make him join Islamic State.