Police claimed on Thursday to have busted a five-member gang, impersonating as government officials and members of charitable organisations, and arrested all, thanks to the remarkable courage of a local woman.
The group had been fraudulently collecting money from unsuspecting citizens under the pretext of raising funds for flood victims. A formal case has now been registered against the accused.
According to Rawalpindi police, a targeted operation in the Sadiqabad locality led to the arrest of five suspects - Muhammad Amin, Rashid Farooq, Riaz Ahmed, Gulzar Ahmed, and others.
The gang was found to be using forged identity cards and counterfeit documents bearing the names and insignia of various public and private entities to deceive the public. On some occasions, they even falsely claimed affiliation with the Special Branch of Punjab Police.
The police recovered fake identification documents, forged credentials, and a substantial amount of money illicitly obtained from the public. It was revealed that the group would go door to door, posing as representatives of official bodies or humanitarian organisations, and solicit financial "donations."
Legal proceedings are now underway, with the police preparing a detailed charge sheet supported by concrete evidence for submission to the court.
The gang's activities were ultimately brought to light by a vigilant woman who challenged the suspects as they attempted to carry out another fraudulent scheme. She demanded proof of identity and recorded a video in which the impostors could be seen threatening her and insisting she "report to their office."
Police officials have reiterated that those who exploit the goodwill of innocent citizens will be brought to justice. They also appealed to the public to report any suspicious activity immediately by calling the emergency helpline at 15.
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