In a dramatic operation reminiscent of a Bollywood-style thriller, Surat Police arrested a man, Vijaysingh Rawatsingh Chauhan posing as a senior Income Tax officer while he was allegedly attempting to extort money from textile traders at the Global Textile Market in Surat.
The accused has been identified as Vijaysingh Rawatsingh Chauhan, a resident of Rajasthan. According to police officials, Chauhan impersonated a Class-I Income Tax officer, complete with formal attire and fabricated documents, to gain the confidence of traders and threaten them with tax action.
Alleged Extortion Attempt
Police stated that Chauhan initially demanded ₹30 lakh from a textile trader, claiming it was required to “settle” alleged income tax discrepancies. After negotiations, the demand was allegedly reduced to ₹4 lakh, and the trader was instructed to bring the cash to a nearby hotel.
However, the trader grew suspicious when Chauhan failed to produce a valid official identity card. Sensing foul play, the trader alerted the Varachha Police Station.
Trap Laid, Accused Arrested
Acting swiftly, the police laid a trap and apprehended Chauhan red-handed at Bliss Hotel, where the cash transaction was supposed to take place. Fake documents and other materials allegedly used to impersonate a tax official were recovered during the arrest.
Prior Knowledge of Tax Procedures
Preliminary investigation has revealed that the accused had prior experience in tax-related work, which helped him understand departmental procedures and convincingly pose as an Income Tax officer. Police are now investigating whether more traders were targeted using similar tactics.
Police Advisory to the Public
Surat Police have issued an important advisory following the incident:
- No Income Tax Department or government agency demands or settles matters in cash.
- Any demand for cash in the name of tax settlement is fraudulent.
- Citizens and traders are urged to inform the police immediately if they encounter such demands.
Case Registered
An extortion case has been registered, and further investigation is underway to determine the full extent of the accused’s activities and possible accomplices.
The incident has once again highlighted the need for vigilance among traders and the general public against impersonation and financial fraud.
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