Hyderabad: A 39-year-old man who posed as a senior government officer for over two years and extorted large sums of money from unsuspecting citizens was arrested by the Film Nagar police on Tuesday. The accused, identified as Bathini Shashikanth, allegedly impersonated IAS, IPS, and NIA officers to gain public confidence and collect money by promising official favors.
Elaborate Impersonation and Deception
According to police reports, Shashikanth projected himself as a Deputy Commissioner in the Mines Department and, at times, claimed to be a senior IPS officer. To lend authenticity to his claims, he created fake IAS, IPS, and NIA identity cards, visiting cards, and other forged documents. He even hired two bodyguards armed with weapons from Tamil Nadu, installed police sirens on his private vehicle, and used walkie-talkies to imitate official communication.
Investigators revealed that Shashikanth circulated forged Telangana State Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TSIIC) land allotment letters to lure victims, promising industrial plots and government clearances.
Victim Comes Forward
The scam came to light after a complaint from Ali Hassan, managing director of Gold Gym, who claimed he was cheated of ₹10,50,665 after being assured help in procuring industrial land. After receiving the money, Shashikanth reportedly absconded, continuing his fraudulent activities until the police tip-off led to his arrest.
Arrest and Investigation
Following the tip-off, the Film Nagar police apprehended Shashikanth at his temporary residence. He has been booked under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for cheating, forgery, impersonation, criminal intimidation, and extortion.
Police also seized two mobile phones, six SIM cards, two walkie-talkies, and a fake identity card during the arrest. Authorities are currently searching for his two accomplices, Praveen and Vimal, who acted as personal bodyguards and are still at large.
Police Advisory
Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious individuals or firms claiming government affiliations to prevent further fraudulent activities. They also warned the public to verify credentials of anyone claiming government authority before engaging in financial transactions.
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