Impersonator Posing as Army Para SF Officer Arrested in Maharashtra
Military Intelligence, in collaboration with Daulatabad police, has detained a 48-year-old woman accused of posing as an Indian Army officer and deceiving the public by attending events in uniform.
The woman, identified as Ruchika Jain from Dharampur, was apprehended on Thursday morning after a raid on her home. According to police, Jain frequently donned a Captain’s uniform, presenting herself as a retired Army officer at various social and cultural events, thus misleading attendees and gaining notoriety.
Huge Cache of Uniforms and Accessories Seized
Authorities confiscated a substantial collection of military uniforms and accessories during the raid. The items included complete combat uniforms with Captain’s insignia, Para Special Forces patches, a nameplate reading “Ruchika Jain,” two ceremonial officer uniforms decorated with medals and ribbons, combat boots, belts, gloves, masks, Army socks, and a photograph of a war memorial.
Investigators also found a fake identification card from a private security agency with her image in Army attire, along with trophies labeled “Captain Ruchika Jain” and mementos from local groups depicting her in military dress.
Past Connections to Security Services
Police commissioner Pravin Pawar stated that preliminary investigations revealed Jain admitted to working as a security guard in Delhi in 2001, where she became acquainted with retired Army personnel. “Enchanted by the military, she allegedly acquired fabric and accessories in 2017 to create her own uniforms. Since then, she has participated in events, including at a private academy, claiming to be a Captain and even mentoring students under the guise of being a retired officer,” CP Pawar disclosed.
Booked Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
The impersonation came to light following specific inputs received by Military Intelligence, prompting the raid and her subsequent arrest. Jain is now facing charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for impersonating a public servant.
Police have confirmed her detention, and investigations are ongoing to ascertain if she gained any financial or other advantages by pretending to be a retired Army officer.
