SHOPIAN, OCT 3: Shopian Police have arrested a man for allegedly impersonating a government employee and cheating the family of a cancer patient after exploiting a social media appeal seeking financial assistance for the patient’s treatment.
According to police, the case came to light after Farooq Ahmad Sofi of Manghama approached the authorities through the CUG mobile number of Police Station Shopian. Sofi had circulated an appeal on social media seeking financial assistance for the treatment of his son, who is undergoing treatment for cancer.
Police said the accused, identified as Umar Shameem Ganie of Memander, Shopian, allegedly took advantage of the appeal and represented himself as an employee of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, Shopian. He allegedly assured the family that he could facilitate financial assistance from the Deputy Commissioner for the treatment of the patient.
On the basis of the alleged representation, the accused reportedly obtained ₹9,999 from the complainant. The matter subsequently came to the notice of the complainant, who traced the accused in Shopian market, where the accused allegedly manhandled, intimidated and threatened him, police said.
Following the complaint, an e-FIR was registered at Police Station Shopian, and the accused was arrested. Police have initiated a detailed investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged impersonation, financial transaction and subsequent confrontation.
The preliminary investigation has also reportedly brought to light allegations that the accused may have been involved in similar fraudulent activities targeting other individuals. Police said these allegations are presently being verified as part of the ongoing investigation.
The case assumes significance as the alleged fraud involved a genuine appeal for financial assistance for a cancer patient, which was allegedly exploited by the accused to obtain money by falsely claiming links with a government office.
Shopian Police have urged people to exercise caution while responding to online appeals for financial assistance and to independently verify the identity and credentials of anyone claiming to represent a government department or facilitate official financial assistance.
Police further advised citizens to immediately report suspicious approaches, impersonation attempts and suspected online fraud to the nearest police station or through appropriate official channels.
Further developments in the case will be shared as the investigation progresses.
