3 held for impersonating VB officials, assaulting traffic cops

Ludhiana: Three men who allegedly posed as vigilance officials clashed with traffic police during routine checking in Jamalpur and were arrested after they allegedly assaulted cops and tore their uniforms. The accused were identified as Raj Kumar and Nishant, both residents of Guru Arjun Dev Nagar, and Ravi Kumar of Dhoka Mohalla.The incident took place around 5.30pm when ASI Dalip Kumar was conducting a vehicle-checking drive. During the inspection, a Tata Indigo without a high-security registration plate was stopped. Police said the driver, Raj Kumar Khatri, claimed he was a senior vigilance officer and threatened the ASI when asked to produce vehicle documents.
According to police, when ASI Dalip Kumar demanded an identity card, the driver and his two companions began abusing him. When the ASI objected, they allegedly manhandled him and tore the buttons of his uniform. Other traffic personnel rushed to assist but were also assaulted. The trio then attempted to flee in their vehicle after obstructing official duty and issuing threats.Head constable Gursahib Preet Singh said a wireless alert was immediately flashed across the area. The vehicle was intercepted at the next intersection, and all three accused were detained. Their vehicle was seized.Police said an FIR has been registered under Sections 132 (assault on public servant), 221 (obstructing public servant), 351(2) (criminal intimidation) and 3(5) (common intention) of the IPC. Officers added that further investigation is underway to verify the accused men's claims of being vigilance officials.