Shopian: Police have arrested a man in Shopian for allegedly impersonating a government employee and cheating the family of a cancer patient on the pretext of arranging financial assistance.
According to police, the complaint was lodged by Farooq Ahmad Sofi of Manghama, who had posted an appeal on social media seeking financial help for the treatment of his son suffering from cancer.
The accused, identified as Umar Shameem Ganie of Memander, allegedly contacted the family, posed as an employee of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Shopian and assured them that he would facilitate financial assistance from the district administration. On this pretext, he allegedly obtained ₹9,999 from the complainant.
Police said the accused was later traced by the complainant in Shopian market, where he allegedly manhandled, intimidated and threatened him.
An e-FIR has been registered at Police Station Shopian and the accused has been arrested.
Preliminary investigation has also revealed allegations of similar fraudulent activities involving other persons, which are being verified, police said, adding that further investigation is underway.
Police urged the public to remain vigilant against online fraudsters and impersonators and advised people to verify the identity of individuals claiming to arrange financial assistance on behalf of government offices or officials.
