Accused Allegedly Promised Government Financial Assistance After Exploiting Social Media Appeal for Cancer Treatment
SHOPIAN, OCTOBER 3: Shopian Police have arrested a man in connection with an alleged case of cheating, impersonation and fraudulent collection of money from the family of a cancer patient after reportedly exploiting a social media appeal seeking financial assistance for medical treatment.
According to a statement issued by the police spokesperson to news agency, a complaint was received on the CUG mobile number of Police Station Shopian from Farooq Ahmad Sofi, a resident of Manghama, who had circulated an appeal on social media seeking financial assistance for the treatment of his son, who is undergoing treatment for cancer.
Police said that the accused, identified as Umar Shameem Ganie, a resident of Memander, Shopian, allegedly took advantage of the appeal and posed as an employee of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, Shopian.
The accused allegedly assured the victim’s family that he could facilitate financial assistance from the Deputy Commissioner, Shopian, for the cancer patient’s treatment. On the pretext of arranging the assistance, he allegedly obtained ₹9,999 from the complainant.
The matter subsequently came to light when the complainant reportedly traced the accused in Shopian market, where the accused allegedly manhandled, intimidated and threatened him.
Following the complaint, police registered an e-FIR at Police Station Shopian and arrested the accused in connection with the case.
During the preliminary investigation, police have also received information regarding allegations of similar fraudulent activities involving other persons. These allegations are presently being verified as part of the ongoing investigation.
Police said that the investigation has been set into motion, and further developments will be shared as the case progresses.
Shopian Police have meanwhile urged the public to exercise caution against online fraudsters, impersonators and individuals exploiting genuine medical and financial assistance appeals.
The police have advised people to independently verify the identity and credentials of anyone claiming to arrange financial assistance through government offices or officials and to immediately report any suspicious activity to the police.
