Pune: In a shocking case of impersonation, Pune Police are investigating a Navi Mumbai resident, Sagar Waghmode, who allegedly posed as an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer and visited several official establishments over the past three years. The accused, aged around 30 and a resident of Nerul, Navi Mumbai, is believed to have exploited this false identity to gain trust and access to government offices.
The Unfolding of the Scam
According to police sources, the case came to light after Bhavik Shah, a Pune-based event management businessman, lodged a complaint with Bundgarden Police Station on October 31, 2025. Shah alleged that Waghmode had befriended him and frequently accompanied him to government offices and official events, claiming to have strong connections with senior police officials.
The ruse was exposed during a visit to the Pune Police Commissionerate, where Waghmode introduced himself as a batchmate of a Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) serving in Pune. The DCP, however, stated that he had no knowledge of Waghmode, prompting Shah to verify the claims and approach the police.
Charges Filed and Ongoing Investigation
Following the complaint, police registered an FIR against Waghmode under Sections 204 (impersonating a public servant) and 419(2) (cheating by personation) of the Indian Penal Code. Assistant Police Inspector Shivshant Khose, who is leading the investigation, said that Waghmode has not yet been arrested but has been issued a notice.
Preliminary investigations indicate that Waghmode may have been involved in a similar impersonation case in the past and had previously attempted civil service exams but did not succeed. Authorities are now examining whether he had deceived other individuals or organizations using the same methods.
Authorities Warn Public
Pune Police have cautioned citizens to exercise vigilance when approached by individuals claiming to hold official government positions. Verification of credentials is strongly advised, especially when such claims involve access to official offices or sensitive information.
Officials are also reviewing visitor logs and records at affected offices to assess the full extent of the alleged impersonation. This case underscores the importance of public awareness and the need for strict verification protocols in government offices.
