Bathini Shashikanth, 39, has been arrested by Film Nagar Police for allegedly impersonating senior government officers — including IAS, IPS and NIA officials — for more than two years to cheat and extort citizens.
According to police, Shashikanth posed as a Deputy Commissioner of Mines and other high-ranking officials, using fake ID cards, forged documents and even police sirens fixed to private vehicles. He also carried walkie-talkies and hired armed bodyguards from Tamil Nadu to maintain the appearance of authority.
One of his major crimes involved cheating Ali Hassan, Managing Director of Gold Gym, of more than Rs10.5 lakh. Shashikanth promised government favours such as industrial land allotment through a forged TSIIC letter. He collected money through bank transfers, UPI payments and cash before disappearing.
A swift operation on November 25, 2025, led to his arrest at his temporary residence in Shaikpet. Two associates, Praveen and Vimal, who acted as his personal bodyguards, are currently absconding.
Police seized several incriminating items, including two mobile phones, six SIM cards, two walkie-talkies, a fake identity card and multiple forged documents.
