Three arrested in Mumbai for extorting doctors posing as civic officials

Police Arrest Three Impostors Posing as BMC Officials

The Kandivli police have arrested three impostors who allegedly posed as Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) officials to extort money from doctors in the western suburbs. One more accused is currently on the run, and a search is underway, according to police.

Details of the Arrests

The arrested individuals are Kalpesh Subhash Kamble, Javed Jabbar Khan, and Anil Ankush Chavan. Police report that the gang specifically targeted BUMS (Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery) and BHMS (Bachelor of Homoeopathic Medicine and Surgery) doctors, threatening them with action over alleged non-compliance with BMC norms.

How the Fraud Worked

Investigations revealed that the accused visited clinics posing as BMC inspectors. They demanded documents such as biomedical waste certificates and degree certificates. After a fake inspection, they threatened doctors with closure or legal action unless money was paid. The fraud was uncovered after alerts were sent to the Kandivli AYUSH Doctors Association about extortion in the area.

Incidents of Extortion

On November 22, 2025, the accused visited Sainath Clinic in Kandivli West and demanded Rs 1.5 lakh after an inspection. Fearing action, the doctor paid Rs 8,000 in cash and Rs 7,000 via Google Pay to Kamble. On November 28, they targeted Sai Krupa Clinic, demanding Rs 80,000. The doctor paid Rs 10,000 online to an account linked to the accused.

Turning Point in the Investigation

The case took a turn on December 31, 2025, when the accused entered Kamala Clinic, run by Dr. Madan Bulatilal Gupta, 60. Dr. Gupta alerted his colleague Sunil Wagh, who recorded a video of the suspects. When confronted, one accused tried to flee but was overpowered. A call to the police helpline led to immediate action.

Confessions and Identification

The detained accused confessed to impersonating BMC officials. Doctors who had previously paid money identified Kamble as one of the extortionists. Police stated that between November 22 and December 31, 2025, the accused extorted a total of Rs 25,000 from doctors.

Investigation and Legal Action

Under the guidance of DCP (Zone XI) Sandeep Jadhav, senior inspector Karan Sonkawade, along with PSI Nitin Satam and his detection team, began the investigation. Kamble was arrested on December 31, 2025; Javed Khan was arrested on January 2, 2026; and Chavan was arrested on January 4, 2026. A case has been registered against them for cheating, impersonation, criminal conspiracy, and extortion.

Association’s Response

The Kandivli AYUSH Doctors Association has 116 doctors and holds an annual function to address their concerns. A representative stated, “Similar inspections have taken place in the past, but no one has demanded money.” They advise doctors to verify matters with the concerned department before proceeding.

Official Clarifications

The association also contacted the Medical Officer of Health (MOH). Officials clarified that no BMC official is authorized to demand money. Any penalties are processed officially by the department, and cash payments are not accepted.