Italian police officers have revealed a sect in northern Italy led by its 77-year-old “preacher”, TASS reports, citing Rainews24.

The “guru” is charged with a sex crime, including against minors.

The sect, the headquarters of which is located in Novara, was also operating in Milan, Genoa and Pavia. The members are mainly women who are actually turned into slaves through the use of psychological pressure. The investigation lasted two years, the TV channel reported.