In a significant move to curb impersonation crimes, authorities in Pune arrested a man who pretended to be a police officer to extort money from unsuspecting citizens. The suspect, Hamid Afsar Khan, was apprehended by the Crime Branch Unit 6 after an elaborate sting operation. This arrest has reportedly resolved eight criminal cases registered at various police stations across Pune. Officials revealed that the perpetrator exploited the trust of senior citizens and women by posing as a law enforcement official, using counterfeit identification and police-like attire.

Operation Leading to Arrest

During a golden autumnal season, the Crime Branch detectives meticulously planned and executed a trap leading to the capture of Hamid Afsar Khan, aged 30, residing in Pathare Wasti, Loni Kalbhor. Authorities stated that Khan had been exploiting individuals under the guise of conducting document checks, convincing them to hand over their belongings for "safekeeping," only to steal them later. His deceptive tactics were uncovered when victims reported suspicious behavior. Following his arrest, Khan confessed to his crimes during questioning, linking him to incidents reported at Kondhwa, Parvati, Sinhagad Road, Kothrud, Bharati Vidyapeeth, and Saswad police stations.

From a journalist's perspective, this case highlights the importance of public vigilance and awareness against such scams. It also underscores the necessity for stringent measures to prevent misuse of authority symbols like police uniforms and badges. As citizens, we must remain cautious and report any suspicious activity immediately to ensure our communities remain safe and secure. This incident serves as a stark reminder that not all who wear the badge do so with honorable intentions.