Patna: A suspected job fraud racket has come to light in Bihar’s capital after two men were arrested for allegedly posing as government officials and promising candidates government jobs in exchange for money.
According to the police, the case surfaced when Rajnath Singh, an Assistant Branch Officer in the Social Welfare Department, noticed a man sitting in the department premises with a banner related to the appointment of Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs). The man was allegedly using a video call to show information to another person.
His activities raised suspicion, following which he was questioned. During the questioning, he allegedly identified himself as an officer posted in Branch-3 of the Health Department, Patna.
However, his identity card was checked and was allegedly found to be fake. The department subsequently informed Secretariat police, who reached the spot and took the suspect into custody.
Allegedly Posed as Health Department Officer
The arrested accused was identified as Ajay Kumar Shukla. Police allege that he posed as a Health Department officer to create an impression of influence and authority.
Investigators suspect that he used his alleged government identity to convince job seekers that he had access to officials and could help arrange appointments in government departments.
Police are now investigating whether candidates were actually asked to pay money and how many people may have been targeted.
Brother-in-Law Allegedly Posed as Police Constable
The investigation also led police to Ajay’s brother-in-law, Raja Kumar, aged around 32, who was also arrested.
According to police, Raja allegedly acted as a fake police constable and used police uniforms and a fake identity card. Investigators suspect that the two used the appearance and authority associated with government positions to gain the confidence of potential victims.
Police Recover Uniforms, Fake IDs and Documents
Secretariat police reportedly recovered three mobile phones, one laptop, two police uniforms, two fake identity cards, two alleged fake appointment letters/certificates and stamps, among other items.
The seized material is now being examined as part of the investigation. Police are also trying to establish where the alleged fake documents and identity cards were prepared.
Police Probe Possible Wider Network
Police are questioning both accused to determine whether other people were involved in the alleged racket.
Investigators are also trying to establish how many candidates may have been approached, whether money was collected from them and the total amount allegedly involved.
The electronic devices and documents recovered from the accused are being examined. Further details about the suspected job fraud network are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.
