📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Mubarakansari
Crime
Man Impersonating Election Commission Official Swindles 80-Year-Old of Rs 5 Lakh in Pune
✍️ Mid-Day
🗓 11 Oct 2026, 04:17 PM
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Police in Pune have arrested a man who pretended to be an Election Commission official and duped an 80‑year‑old resident out of Rs 5 lakh.
According to Mid‑Day, a resident of Pune was defrauded of Rs 5 lakh after a man approached him claiming to be an Election Commission (EC) official. The victim, an 80‑year‑old senior citizen, was convinced that the money was required for some official purpose related to upcoming elections.
Investigators say the suspect used forged identification and mimicked the language and procedures of the EC to gain the victim's trust. The elderly man handed over the cash, believing it would secure his voting rights or prevent legal complications.
Pune police have detained the accused and opened a criminal case under sections dealing with fraud and impersonation of a public servant. The authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and collecting statements to determine whether other residents were targeted.
Officials reminded the public that genuine EC officers never demand money from voters. They urged citizens to verify the identity of any official through official channels before making any payments, and to report suspicious approaches immediately.
Investigators say the suspect used forged identification and mimicked the language and procedures of the EC to gain the victim's trust. The elderly man handed over the cash, believing it would secure his voting rights or prevent legal complications.
Pune police have detained the accused and opened a criminal case under sections dealing with fraud and impersonation of a public servant. The authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and collecting statements to determine whether other residents were targeted.
Officials reminded the public that genuine EC officers never demand money from voters. They urged citizens to verify the identity of any official through official channels before making any payments, and to report suspicious approaches immediately.