Daijiworld Media Network – Lucknow

Lucknow, Sep 5: A routine traffic check in the city exposed a high-profile fraud as police arrested a man posing as an IAS officer. The accused, identified as Saurabh Tripathi (36), a resident of Gautam Buddha Nagar and native of Mau district, was caught near Kargil Park on Wednesday.

Tripathi, a BTech graduate, had allegedly been impersonating an IAS officer for several years, enjoying privileges and access reserved for top bureaucrats. During the check, his suspicious behaviour prompted further questioning, which revealed his true identity.

Police recovered luxury cars including a Range Rover and Mercedes-Benz C 220, fake government documents, official car passes, and red-blue beacons from his possession. His vehicles also displayed ‘Government of India’ labels.

According to SHO Rajesh Kumar Tripathi of Wazirganj Police, “something about his behaviour raised suspicion, and that stroke of luck exposed a high-profile fraud.” Investigations revealed that the accused projected himself as a “cabinet special secretary,” attended high-profile events, and maintained a social media account under the name @Saurabh_IAAS, now deactivated.

He reportedly travelled with bodyguards and posted photos with influential leaders, including religious preacher Prem Bhushan Maharaj and ministers, to strengthen his fake credentials. Lucknow Police have registered a case under multiple sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and a probe is on to identify his network and contacts.