Woman Driving SUV with Fake Diplomatic Number Plates Held in Delhi Ahead of Republic Day
In a significant security operation ahead of Republic Day celebrations, the Delhi Police Crime Branch has arrested a 45-year-old woman from Guwahati for allegedly using forged diplomatic number plates on a Toyota Innova SUV to move around embassies and high-security areas in the capital. Police described the arrest as crucial from a national security perspective, highlighting the timing just before the major national event.
Intelligence-Led Operation Uncovers Forged Plates
The arrest was made based on specific intelligence received by the Anti-Extortion and Kidnapping Cell (AEKC) of the Crime Branch. Intelligence indicated that a woman was frequently visiting various embassies and sensitive diplomatic zones using a vehicle with forged diplomatic registration plates, identified as '144 CD 54'. Police traced the SUV to B Block in Vasant Vihar, a prominent residential area in South Delhi.
A trap was laid, and around 3:10 PM, the woman approached the car, opened it with keys, and was intercepted as she was about to drive away. When officers asked her to produce ownership documents, she claimed the vehicle belonged to a foreign embassy but failed to furnish any papers. During a search of the vehicle, police recovered another forged plate resembling those used by foreign missions, adding to the evidence against her.
Questioning Reveals Motives and Background
During questioning, the woman initially claimed to be a representative of a foreign embassy but could not name the mission or produce any diplomatic or ownership documents. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime Branch) Sanjeev Kumar Yadav stated that she told police she had purchased the Innova from a foreign embassy in November 2024. Following the purchase, the embassy filed a complaint at the Chanakyapuri police station as the vehicle had not been transferred to her name.
To avoid police checks, she allegedly prepared forged embassy-style number plates. An officer revealed that her husband works as a regional transport officer in the Assam Transport Department, and her father-in-law was also a government employee. The woman, a graduate, claimed to be serving as an all-India secretary of a political party for the past four years.
She also stated that she worked as a consultant with a foreign embassy between 2023 and 2024, earning Rs 1.5 lakh per month, and as a sports guide attached to the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya. Currently, she is providing consultancy to foreign students, especially African nationals, seeking admission to this university. Police noted that she took commissions to set up foreign traders with Indian suppliers, requiring embassy contacts, which motivated her to forge the number plates for access.
Security Implications and Ongoing Investigation
This case underscores the heightened security measures in place ahead of Republic Day, with authorities vigilant against potential threats. The use of forged diplomatic plates to gain unauthorized access to sensitive zones raises concerns about security breaches and the exploitation of diplomatic privileges. Delhi Police are continuing their investigation to determine if there are any broader networks or additional individuals involved in similar activities.
The arrest serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent checks and intelligence operations in safeguarding national security, particularly during high-profile events. Further details are expected as the probe progresses, with police emphasizing the need for public cooperation in reporting suspicious activities.
