New Delhi: In a startling case reminiscent of a film-style operation, an elderly couple in South-East Delhi’s New Friends Colony was allegedly targeted in a fake Enforcement Directorate (ED) raid allegedly orchestrated by their domestic help and her associates. After scanning footage from nearly 350 CCTV cameras, police arrested the domestic aide and her sister-in-law, while three other accused — including an ITBP constable — remain absconding.
According to investigators, the incident took place on February 11 when a group of individuals arrived at the couple’s residence posing as ED officials. Claiming to be conducting a probe linked to money laundering, the accused allegedly began searching the house and instructed the occupants to cooperate with the “official proceedings.”
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During the so-called raid, the accused reportedly gathered cash, jewellery and several expensive watches at one place. However, the situation took a dramatic turn when retired doctor Usha Sabharwal discreetly used an additional mobile phone to call her grandson, Kunal Sabharwal, a lawyer familiar with ED procedures.
During the conversation, Kunal reportedly questioned the supposed officials about procedural formalities and documentation. Their inability to provide satisfactory responses raised suspicion. Sensing that the raid was fake, the family raised an alarm. By then, the accused had fled the spot with approximately ₹4 lakh in cash and six to seven high-end watches.
Police were alerted soon after, and a case was registered. Initial investigation focused on CCTV footage from cameras installed in and around the colony. A blue Maruti Baleno was seen exiting the area around the time of the incident. Investigators then undertook a detailed analysis of nearly 350 CCTV feeds across multiple routes to trace the vehicle’s movement.
The trail eventually led police to Vaishali Sector-4 in Ghaziabad. During the probe, suspicion fell on the couple’s domestic help, Rekha Devi. Further inquiries revealed that the house traced through the vehicle belonged to her sister-in-law, Pooja Rajput.
A raid was conducted at the premises, leading to the arrest of Rekha and Pooja. Police claimed to have recovered cash, six to seven expensive watches, a pistol, and a purported fake uniform and identification card of an ITBP Deputy Commandant from the house.
Investigators also identified Pooja’s husband, Prakash Kumar — stated to be serving as a constable in the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) — as a key conspirator. He is currently absconding along with two others. Police teams are conducting raids to apprehend the remaining accused.
Preliminary findings suggest that the domestic help had detailed knowledge of the household’s financial position and valuable assets, which allegedly enabled the accused to plan the fake raid with precision. The recovered weapon and forged identity documents have been sent for forensic examination to determine their origin and authenticity.
The incident has raised concerns over the misuse of official identities and uniforms to gain unlawful access to private residences. Police have urged citizens to verify identity cards and official documentation of any agency personnel conducting searches and to immediately contact the local police station in case of doubt.
Interrogation of the arrested accused is ongoing, and investigators believe further details about the conspiracy will emerge once the remaining suspects are apprehended.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
