21-year-old caught impersonating as Brigadier
A 21-year-old man was arrested in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, on charges of impersonating a Brigadier. Aryan Verma was apprehended while wearing a Brigadier’s uniform and accompanied by others suspected of posing as security personnel. The arrest followed a covert operation conducted by Station Headquarters, Shahjahanpur, in coordination with local veterans.
During interrogation, Verma informed investigators that he had failed the NEET examination, despite his intention to study at the Armed Forces Medical College. He stated that he misled his mother, who suffers from a heart condition, by claiming to have become a doctor in the armed forces. To support this claim, he is reported to have purchased military uniforms, insignia, and related items from Noida and Gurugram.
According to officials, the operation was carried out on June 12 following two months of intelligence gathering regarding a suspected impersonator in Shahjahanpur and surrounding areas.
Colonel JS Jaglan, Administrative Commandant of Station Headquarters Shahjahanpur, collaborated with local veterans to verify Verma’s identity.
Authorities arranged for Verma to attend a function at the Shaheed Museum under the pretext of motivating and honouring students. Upon his arrival, he was identified and taken into custody. Officials stated that he arrived in a Tata Harrier bearing a one-star plate and an Army Headquarters flag. He was accompanied by a driver who carried a Government of India identification card and by two individuals dressed in black, reportedly posing as NSG commandos.
A search of the vehicle and its occupants led to the recovery of a forged Brigadier identification card, an air pistol, an AMC regimental cane, and additional military-style items. Police reported that Verma had also affixed Army insignia to his father’s car.
Circle Officer Pankaj Pant confirmed that a complaint has been received and a case is being registered.
The driver and the two individuals accompanying Verma are currently under questioning. Further legal action will be determined based on the outcome of the investigation.
The Army said this operation showed the alertness of military authorities and veterans. They added that pretending to be military personnel and using military insignia or ID documents without permission are serious crimes and will be dealt with strictly under the law.
