Shahkot Police have busted an alleged recruitment fraud in which a man posing as an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer duped job aspirants of ₹31.50 lakh by promising them appointments in the Punjab Police. The accused, identified as Anmol Ratan, has been arrested along with his wife, Mandeep Kaur, and father, Balwinder Singh, for their alleged roles in the scam.
DSP Shahkot
Addressing a press conference, Sarwan Singh Ball, PPS, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), Sub-Division Shahkot, said that FIR No. 164, dated July 17, 2025, has been registered at Police Station Shahkot under Sections 316(2), 318(4), 336(2), 336(3), 338 and 340(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
According to the police, Anmol Ratan allegedly impersonated an IPS officer to gain the trust of unsuspecting victims. Using the fake identity, he reportedly assured the complainant that he had the influence to secure jobs in the Punjab Police and collected ₹31.50 lakh on the false promise of recruitment.
Investigation on the matter
Investigators said the accused claimed he could arrange appointments to prestigious posts, including Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), Inspector, and Head Constable, thereby convincing the complainant to hand over the money.
During the investigation, police uncovered evidence suggesting that the accused did not act alone. The probe revealed the alleged involvement of his wife, Mandeep Kaur, and father, Balwinder Singh, following which both were taken into custody. Police are now examining the role each family member played in executing the alleged fraud and whether they actively assisted in misleading victims or handling the money obtained through the scam.
Recovered items
As part of the investigation, Shahkot Police recovered one laptop, one mobile phone, a fake IPS identity card, and several forged documents from the accused. The seized electronic devices and documents are being scrutinised for digital evidence that could reveal additional victims, financial transactions, or links to a wider network involved in recruitment fraud.
Alleges by the officials
Officials believe the accused may have targeted multiple job seekers by exploiting the aspirations of candidates seeking government employment. Investigators are working to determine whether similar frauds were carried out elsewhere.
Appeal to the public
Police have appealed to anyone who may have been approached by the accused or promised a government job in exchange for money to come forward and assist in the investigation.
Investigation underway
The investigation remains underway, with police seeking to establish the full extent of the alleged recruitment racket and identify any additional individuals who may have been involved. Authorities have reiterated that recruitment to government services is conducted strictly through official procedures and have urged the public not to fall prey to fraudulent promises of jobs in return for money.
