Mirzapur: A man allegedly impersonating a police officer was arrested near the Collectorate premises in Uttar Pradesh‘s Mirzapur district on Wednesday after his suspicious behaviour raised doubts among members of the public and police personnel.
The accused was reportedly seen moving around the Collectorate complex wearing a police uniform bearing a single star, apparently posing as a sub-inspector. His unusual conduct and inability to provide satisfactory answers regarding his identity and posting prompted bystanders to alert the authorities.
Following the complaint, City Kotwali police intervened and took the suspect into custody for questioning.
Accused claims he came to join duty
During interrogation, the man identified himself as Shivlal Pal, a resident of Prayagraj.
According to police sources, Pal claimed that he had arrived in Mirzapur to report for duty at the Women’s Police Station. However, when officers asked him to produce documents supporting his claim, he was unable to provide any appointment letter, identity card or official records confirming his posting.
His inability to furnish proof of employment further strengthened suspicions that he was impersonating a police officer.
Police officials said he also failed to give a convincing explanation regarding his presence at the Collectorate complex while dressed in uniform.
Police confirm arrest
In an official statement, Mirzapur Police confirmed the arrest of the accused for allegedly posing as a police sub-inspector.
Authorities stated that the man was apprehended while roaming around the Collectorate area wearing a police uniform and presenting himself as a serving officer.
The police have launched an investigation to determine how the accused obtained the uniform and whether he had used it on previous occasions.
Investigation focuses on motive
Investigators are currently examining whether Shivlal Pal has any legitimate connection to the police department or if he deliberately impersonated an officer to gain access to restricted areas or mislead members of the public.
Officials are also probing the motive behind his visit to the Collectorate and whether he attempted to use the uniform to obtain any benefit, influence officials or engage in unlawful activities.
The investigation will also seek to establish whether the accused was acting alone or had any associates involved in the impersonation.
Further legal action likely
Police said further legal action will be taken based on the outcome of the investigation.
Authorities have not yet disclosed whether additional charges have been registered against the accused beyond impersonation. More details are expected to emerge as investigators complete their inquiry and verify the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The arrest highlights the vigilance of local residents and law enforcement personnel in identifying and preventing attempts to impersonate public officials.