Patna: In an unusual case of impersonation, a man posing as an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer was arrested in Saran district, Bihar, after attempting to meet senior officials, including the District Magistrate (DM) and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP). The man’s true identity was revealed when he failed to answer questions about administrative work, raising suspicion among officials.
Impersonation Attempt at Saran District Offices
The accused, identified as Ritesh Kumar, son of Krishna Pandit from Basadhi village, Mufassil police station area, visited the office of SSP Vineet Kumar on Monday, introducing himself as an IAS officer posted in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh.
- Ritesh reportedly gifted a bouquet to the SSP to bolster his impersonation.
- Emboldened by the initial meeting, he then proceeded to meet Saran DM Vaibhava Srivastava.
While the initial conversation was general, the DM became suspicious when Ritesh failed to answer basic questions about administrative services and functions.
Investigation and Arrest
The DM immediately summoned Saran ASP Ram Pukar Singh to verify Ritesh’s credentials.
- The investigation revealed that Ritesh’s claims of being an IAS officer were false.
- He was subsequently handed over to the police and is now under investigation.
The police registered a case against him, and officers are reviewing his past records, contacts, and activities to determine if he attempted to defraud anyone using his fake identity.
Family Claims and Mental Health Allegations
Ritesh’s family claimed:
- He was preparing for the UPSC exam.
- He has an obsession with meeting officials.
- He may be mentally unstable.
However, the family failed to provide any medical certificate to substantiate claims of mental illness.
Sanjeev Kumar, SHO of Town Police Station, stated: “We are interrogating him and investigating his past activities to determine if he has committed any other crime.”
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