For several days, shopkeepers in Shadiyabad and nearby Saidpur markets had complained about harassment and extortion
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A gang pretending to be Income Tax officials has been exposed in Uttar Pradesh’s Ghazipur after local traders reported an extortion attempt to the police. The incident came to light in Shadiyabad market, where shopkeepers grew suspicious of repeated “raids” carried out by the group.
According to police, traders managed to catch three members of the gang during one such attempt and handed them over to authorities. However, the alleged mastermind, Sars Kumar Gupta, managed to escape. Ghazipur City SP Rakesh Mishra confirmed the arrests and said police teams have been formed to track down Gupta.
For several days, shopkeepers in Shadiyabad and nearby Saidpur markets had complained about harassment and extortion. The gang allegedly posed as Income Tax officials, conducted fake inspections at shops, and pressured traders into paying large sums of money, according to a report by Times Of India.
The situation escalated when traders approached Ikramul Haq, president of the Industrial Trade Board, raising concerns about the suspicious nature of these raids. Their doubts grew after interacting with the gang members, prompting them to remain alert.
During another attempt by the gang to intimidate shopkeepers, the traders informed the police and successfully detained three of the accused. Reports suggest the group consists of eight members, including a woman.
Following the incident, shopkeepers filed a formal complaint at the Shadiyabad police station, demanding strict action and a detailed investigation into the racket.
Police said they are questioning the arrested individuals and working to uncover the full network. The main accused, Gupta, is still on the run.
Meanwhile, a photograph of Gupta with Ghazipur MP Afzal Ansari has surfaced on social media, triggering sharp reactions online.
Uttar Pradesh, India, India
April 05, 2026, 14:49 IST
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