In a dramatic expose reminiscent of the Bollywood film Special 26, Sambhal police foiled an elaborate fraud attempt after an LLB student impersonating an Income Tax officer tried to extort ₹24 lakh from a local farmer by issuing a fake notice over alleged undisclosed income.
The incident took place in Akhtiyarpur village under Nakhasa police station limits. The accused, identified as Mohit, is a law student pursuing his LLB degree in Amroha. Police said he arrived at the residence of farmer Shishpal carrying forged identity cards and fabricated documents, claiming to be part of a confidential Income Tax investigation.
According to investigators, Mohit told the farmer that a departmental probe had revealed nearly ₹2 crore of “illegal income” in his accounts. He demanded 12 per cent of the amount—₹24 lakh—as a penalty, warning of immediate legal action if the payment was not made.
To make the story appear credible, the accused handed over a fake Income Tax notice and used official-sounding language to pressure the farmer into arranging the money quickly.
However, Shishpal grew suspicious of the claims. Instead of confronting the accused, he kept him engaged in conversation while discreetly alerting the local police. Acting swiftly on the tip-off, a Nakhasa police team reached the spot and arrested Mohit red-handed.
A search of the accused led to the recovery of forged identity cards, fabricated notices and other incriminating documents. Preliminary investigation revealed that Mohit had downloaded sample Income Tax notices from the internet and altered them to suit his scheme. He had also created a fake official ID to strengthen his impersonation.
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Police officials said the accused appeared to be operating alone, though efforts are underway to determine whether he had previously targeted other victims or was linked to a wider network.
A case has been registered against Mohit under multiple sections related to cheating, forgery and impersonation of a public servant. He was produced before a court and remanded to judicial custody.
Senior police officers said the incident highlights a growing trend of fraudsters posing as government officials to intimidate citizens into parting with money. Using legal jargon, counterfeit documents and fear tactics, such impostors attempt to exploit people’s lack of familiarity with official procedures.
Authorities have reiterated that the Income Tax Department does not conduct door-to-door recoveries or demand cash payments. Any genuine notice or penalty is communicated through official channels and can be verified online.
Police have urged residents to immediately contact local authorities if anyone claims to be from the Income Tax Department, CBI or any other government agency and seeks money in person. Citizens are also advised to verify any notice or enforcement action through official department websites or helplines.
Cyber and financial crime experts warn that impersonation scams are on the rise, with criminals increasingly relying on fake documents and psychological pressure to trap victims. They advise people to remain cautious, avoid panic-driven decisions and report suspicious approaches without delay.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
