SRINAGAR: Police in south Kashmir’s Shopian district have arrested a man for allegedly cheating a family seeking financial assistance for the cancer treatment of their son by impersonating an employee of the Deputy Commissioner’s office.
The accused, identified as Umar Shameem Ganie of Memander, Shopian, allegedly contacted the family after the patient’s father, Farooq Ahmad Sofi of Manghama, posted an appeal on social media seeking financial help for his son’s treatment.
According to police, Ganie allegedly posed as an employee of the DC Office, Shopian, and assured the family that he would facilitate financial assistance from the Deputy Commissioner for the patient’s treatment. He allegedly obtained Rs 9,999 from Sofi on that pretext.
The complainant later traced the accused in Shopian market, where Ganie allegedly manhandled, intimidated and threatened him, police said.
An e-FIR has been registered at Police Station Shopian and the accused has been arrested. Police said the preliminary investigation has also revealed allegations of similar fraudulent activities involving other persons, which are being verified.
Further investigation is underway, with police saying additional developments will be shared as the case progresses.
Shopian Police have advised the public to verify the identity and credentials of anyone claiming to arrange financial assistance on behalf of government offices or officials and to report suspicious activity promptly.
