Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh. A woman accused of impersonating an IAS officer has been booked in 22 separate FIRs in Bareilly, where police are investigating an alleged organised recruitment fraud targeting unemployed youths. The accused, identified as Vipra Sharma, allegedly promised government jobs in exchange for money while presenting herself as a senior administrative officer.
Fake Official Identity Used to Win Trust
According to police, Vipra Sharma allegedly introduced herself as an IAS officer and, in some cases, claimed to be an Additional District Magistrate. Investigators said she used the false identity to convince job seekers that she could secure government employment for them.
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The latest FIR was registered at Baradari police station on Sunday night after Rinku Maurya, a resident of Faridapur Ramcharan village, alleged that he was cheated of ₹1 lakh. He told police that he was promised a government job for ₹3 lakh, with ₹1 lakh paid in advance and the remaining ₹2 lakh to be paid after confirmation. No appointment was provided.
Sisters Under Probe in Organised Racket
Police said the accused was allegedly not acting alone. Preliminary investigation suggests that Vipra Sharma and her two sisters worked together to lure job aspirants with promises of government posts.
Investigators suspect the group used fake assurances, fabricated claims and official-sounding identities to gain the confidence of unemployed candidates. The alleged racket appeared to target those urgently seeking stable employment and willing to pay advance money for job placement.
₹55 Lakh Frozen as Complaints Rise
Officials confirmed that 22 FIRs have now been registered against Vipra Sharma, following complaints from several victims. Police have frozen approximately ₹55 lakh suspected to be linked to the fraud network and are examining bank transactions to trace the money collected from complainants.
The case first came to light after a complaint filed by Preeti Loyal, a resident of Faik Enclave. That complaint led to police action and the arrest of Vipra Sharma and her two sisters on April 28.
Police said the Gangster Act may be considered after chargesheets are filed, given the number of complaints and the alleged organised nature of the fraud. Investigators are also examining whether others helped forge documents or arrange meetings with victims.
The case has raised renewed concern over fake government job rackets, in which fraudsters impersonate officials and exploit unemployed youths. Police have urged job seekers to verify recruitment claims and avoid paying money for government employment promises.
