A controversy has erupted in Prayagraj after a police inspector was found to have staged and posted a fake encounter-style reel on social media, days after arresting youths for making dangerous Instagram videos. The incident has raised serious questions about police conduct and the misuse of authority for online popularity.
The inspector, identified as Vikas Singh, allegedly created and shared a scripted action reel showing himself entering dramatically on a Bullet motorcycle — without wearing a helmet — at the same location where the youths had earlier filmed their stunt video.
From arrest to action reel
According to officials, four youths were arrested on December 26 after their Instagram reel, featuring dangerous stunts and dialogues inspired by slain mafia Atiq Ahmed, went viral. The video showed youths sitting on the roof of a moving Fortuner, hanging from doors and riding alongside on bikes, accompanied by threatening and vulgar dialogue.
Police registered a case on December 25 and seized three vehicles — a Fortuner, Seltos and Dzire.
However, a day later, Inspector Vikas Singh reportedly returned to the same road in uniform and filmed a dramatic reel portraying a fake encounter aftermath. In the video, four accused were shown limping in police custody, creating the impression that they had been injured in a police action.
Accused allegedly made to ‘act’
Investigators revealed that no encounter or injuries had taken place. Medical examinations confirmed the youths were unhurt. Sources allege the inspector instructed the arrested boys to walk with a limp for the camera, which they complied with.
The reel showed the inspector seizing vehicles “like a hero”, making a high-speed entry on a Bullet bike and projecting a cinematic image of police dominance. The video was uploaded from a social media account named ‘Thanedar’, which reportedly carries the inspector’s name.
Public backlash and official response
The reel drew mixed reactions online. While some users praised the dramatic entry, others questioned the lack of helmet use and criticised the double standards — arresting youths for reels while making one himself.
Following the video going viral, Uttar Pradesh Police Commissioner Jogendra Kumar took cognisance of the matter and ordered a detailed report. Airport police station in-charge Vinay Singh confirmed that information has been sought from the sub-inspector who uploaded the video.
Questions over accountability
The episode has reignited debate over social media conduct by law enforcement officers and the need for clear boundaries between policing and online self-promotion. As authorities examine the case, the incident has become a cautionary example of how performative policing can undermine public trust.