Two extortionists posing as police officers apprehended in south Kashmir’s Tral

Apr 03, 2025

AWANTIPORA: Police in south Kashmir's Tral have arrested two individuals for allegedly impersonating law enforcement officers and extorting money from unsuspecting citizens.

The arrests were made following a complaint by Mohammad Altaf Ganai, a resident of Nageenpora, Tral.

The accused, identified as Bashir Ahmad Sheikh of Saimooh and Mohammad Shafi Dar of Dadsora, were falsely claiming police authority to intimidate and defraud people, police said in a statement.

Several victims had reported being coerced into paying money under the threat of legal action. Acting on these complaints, the Tral police registered FIR No. 31 of 2025 under relevant sections and took the accused into custody.

Authorities have urged the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity. "Legitimate officers never demand money from the public under any circumstances," police said, encouraging people to verify identities before complying with any such demands.