'Fake' PMO official held ahead of PM Modi's arrival at Global Fintech Fest's Mumbai venue, gun seized - Moneycontrol.com

**Mumbai, India –** Security officials detained a man who was impersonating a Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) officer and his alleged “bodyguard” after the duo entered a Mumbai mall armed with a firearm on the morning of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled appearance at the Global Fintech Fest. Police seized a licensed‑type pistol and recovered identification documents that the suspect, identified as Rohan Parekh, claimed were issued by the PMO. The incident unfolded at the venue’s adjacent commercial complex, prompting a swift police response and a temporary lockdown of the area while the authorities verified the identities of those involved.

Investigators disclosed that Parekh possessed a forged appointment letter and an ID badge purporting to be official government credentials. Alongside him was a second individual who was carrying the weapon. Both men were taken into custody and placed before a Mumbai court, where Parekh’s lawyer presented the disputed documents and asserted his client’s legitimate affiliation with the PMO. However, senior police officials categorically ruled out any connection between the detained pair and the Prime Minister’s itinerary, emphasizing that the incident was an isolated security breach and not part of a larger plot.

The episode has heightened scrutiny of security protocols ahead of the high‑profile fintech summit, which is expected to draw domestic and international leaders. While the PMO has not issued a detailed comment, a spokesperson reiterated that the Prime Minister’s safety remains the top priority and that comprehensive checks are in place for all attendees. Law enforcement agencies have pledged to intensify verification measures for accreditation and to pursue legal action against those attempting to exploit official designations for personal gain.