Fake GST officers busted in Bengaluru: Housekeeping staff used bogus IDs to extort ₹5 lakh

Banashankari police arrest two accused, seize fake identity cards, search warrants and recovered cash after complaint from GST superintendent

In a major crackdown on impersonation and extortion, Banashankari police in Bengaluru have arrested two men who posed as central government officers using fake GST identity cards and extorted money from gutkha traders. The accused were working as outsourced housekeeping staff in a GST office, but allegedly misused their access and insider knowledge to carry out the crime.

According to police, the accused created fake identity cards claiming to be officers of the GST Intelligence Wing and approached gutkha traders in the Peenya area. By threatening them with raids and legal action, they allegedly extorted ₹5 lakh. The victims, fearing official action, paid the money.

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The fraud came to light after senior officials in the GST department became aware of the misuse of their department’s name. A GST Superintendent filed a formal complaint at Banashankari Police Station, following which a case was registered and a detailed investigation was launched.

During the probe, police discovered that the accused were not government officers but outsourced housekeeping workers employed at the GST office. Acting on the complaint, Banashankari police arrested both accused and recovered ₹5 lakh in cash, along with fake GST ID cards and search warrants used to threaten traders.

South Division Deputy Commissioner of Police Lokesh Jagalasar confirmed that the accused had impersonated GST officers and carried out extortion, adding that the recovered money, forged identity cards, and documents have been seized as evidence. He also said that police are investigating whether any external persons assisted the accused and who helped in creating the fake ID cards.

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Police officials stated that the accused used their familiarity with GST office procedures to convincingly threaten traders, making the scam appear genuine. Further investigation is underway to identify any additional links or accomplices involved in the racket.

Authorities have urged traders and citizens to verify the credentials of officials and immediately report any suspicious demands for money.