I’m an IAS: Lucknow man spent years fooling the system, exposed after random traffic stop

Mangalore Today News Network

UP, September 4, 2025: It was supposed to be a routine traffic check in Lucknow — the kind that happens dozens of times each day across the bustling Uttar Pradesh capital. But when officers flagged down a luxury vehicle speeding through the city streets, they had no idea they were about to uncover one of the most audacious cases of impersonation in recent memory.

What began as a simple request for identification would soon expose a web of deception that stretched across multiple states and involved fake government credentials, forged official passes, and a man who had been living a double life for years.

In Lucknow, police stopped a man travelling in a high-end vehicle. When asked for identification, he confidently presented a card identifying himself as an IAS (Indian Administrative Service) officer. The inspector, momentarily taken aback, accepted the ID. However, growing suspicion prompted a more thorough inspection, and what followed left officers stunned.

A Carefully Constructed Fraud

The man was soon revealed to be Saurabh Tripathi, a resident of Sarai Lakhansi in Mau district, currently living in Shalimar One World Society, Gomtinagar Extension, Lucknow. According to police, he had been impersonating an IAS officer for a considerable time and had even managed to participate in official government programmes, not just in Uttar Pradesh, but across multiple states, posing as a secretary or special secretary.

Deceptive Tactics And Glamour

Saurabh’s method of deception was shrewd. He often posed for photographs with senior officials and political figures, which he later shared on social media, thereby building a false image of authority and legitimacy.

His fabricated persona allowed him to exploit the trust of others, gaining both money and privileges.

Social Media As A Tool For Deception

Investigations revealed that Saurabh operated multiple fake profiles across various social media platforms. At times, he claimed to be a Cabinet Special Secretary; other times, the Secretary of Urban and Rural Development. These profiles not only enhanced his false image but also helped him expand his network, luring more unsuspecting individuals into his web of deceit.

His online presence helped him infiltrate several official events, portraying himself as someone occupying high-ranking administrative roles.

Display Of False Power Through Luxury Vehicles

To further validate his fabricated status, Saurabh reportedly used luxury vehicles fitted with red and blue beacon lights. Following his arrest, police seized six such cars, including high-end models like the Defender, Fortuner, and Innova. The government-issued passes displayed on these vehicles were also confirmed to be forgeries.

With these vehicles and accessories, Saurabh was able to fool not only the general public but also lower- and mid-level officials, giving the illusion of legitimate authority.

Fraudulent Benefits Across Multiple States

Initial investigations suggest that Saurabh availed government facilities using his fake identity in various districts and states, defrauding numerous individuals. Police believe he used this guise to secure financial and logistical benefits on multiple occasions.

Ongoing Investigation Into A Wider Network

The Wazirganj police are now conducting a thorough inquiry into Saurabh Tripathi’s activities. Authorities suspect that others may be involved in the scheme.

Notifications and queries have been sent to relevant districts and states to determine the extent of his fraud and whether there is a larger network operating behind the scenes.