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A shocking case has emerged from Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, where traders have accused impostors of posing as GST officials and extorting money from them. The issue has sparked serious concerns among both business owners and the GST department.
Traders Complain About Fake GST Officials
Several traders reported that fraudsters are stopping trucks and harassing businessmen under the guise of GST checks. These impostors demand money from traders, especially those transporting goods into Kanpur from other cities.
Difficult to Identify:
- Truck drivers and traders struggle to differentiate between real and fake GST officials, making them easy targets for extortion.
Incident in Kalyanpur, Kanpur:
- A truck from Ghaziabad was stopped by a fraudster claiming to be an Additional Commissioner of State GST.
- Using pressure tactics, he extorted money from the traders under the pretense of checking their goods.
Traders Demand Action Against Fraudsters
Concerned over the increasing fraud cases, traders have united to demand strict action from the GST department.
- Under the leadership of business leaders, many traders protested against the fake GST officers roaming the streets.
- They raised their complaints to Additional Commissioner Grade One Ashish Vidyarthi at the State GST office in Kanpur.
- Traders urged authorities to take immediate steps to curb this menace and ensure their protection from fraudulent activities.
GST Department Responds with Strict Measures
After receiving multiple complaints, GST officials acknowledged the severity of the issue and promised immediate action.
- Additional Commissioner Ashish Vidyarthi stated that these fraudulent gangs have been harassing traders in the name of GST compliance.
- The department has now issued strict orders to its officials to remain alert and take action against fake GST inspectors.
- Traders were also advised to report suspicious individuals to the authorities to help catch these criminals.