Pune residents are on high alert as reports come in of individuals dressed as police officers soliciting donations from citizens for various causes. In areas like Wakad, Hinjawadi, and Baner, locals are expressing concerns over the lack of proper police insignia on these individuals, such as badges, stars, and name tags.
While some believe these individuals may be part of the Behrupiya community, known for their impersonation skills and traditional performances, others suspect them to be fraudsters. Behrupiyas have a long history of entertaining audiences in Maharashtra by mimicking different characters, including police officers, to collect small donations. However, recent incidents have seen impersonators demanding larger sums and refusing smaller contributions.
The confusion between genuine Behrupiyas and potential scammers has led to uncertainty among residents. Some individuals posing as police officers have refused to reveal their true identity, making it difficult for people to differentiate between the two. In one case, a 71-year-old woman was deceived by fake cops who stole jewelry worth ₹2.75 lakh from her in Vishrantwadi.
As these incidents become more common, citizens are calling for more awareness on how to spot authentic Behrupiyas and potential scammers. It is recommended to directly ask individuals about their identity and intentions, as genuine Behrupiyas usually reveal themselves and ask for minimal donations. Suspicious individuals demanding large sums should be reported to the authorities to prevent further fraud.
With the line between traditional performers and fraudsters blurring, it is crucial for residents to stay vigilant and protect themselves from potential scams while also respecting the cultural significance of the Behrupiya community.
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