The Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) has uncovered a fake FASTag racket in Lucknow, exposing a scheme in which forged vehicle registration certificates (RCs) and fabricated KYC documents were allegedly used to issue fraudulent FASTags. Investigators say the fake tags enabled vehicles to evade toll tax payments and avoid online traffic e-challans, resulting in significant revenue losses for the government.
Two accused have been arrested, and authorities are now expanding the investigation to identify others involved in the network.
How The Fraud Operated
According to the STF, the accused allegedly created FASTags using fake vehicle numbers, forged registration certificates and fabricated identity documents. These fraudulent FASTags were then used on different vehicles, allowing users to bypass toll collection systems and escape traffic penalties generated through automated surveillance.
Officials believe the racket had been operating for financial gain, with those involved earning commissions for issuing fake FASTags.
Two Accused Arrested
The STF arrested two individuals in Lucknow during the operation. Investigators said one of the accused was reportedly working as a FASTag agent associated with a private bank and allegedly used his position to facilitate the issuance of fraudulent FASTags.
During questioning, the accused are said to have admitted that they prepared multiple fake FASTags using forged vehicle details and shared the commissions received from the illegal activity.
Government Suffers Revenue Loss
Authorities believe the fraudulent FASTags caused substantial financial losses by allowing vehicles to avoid paying toll charges while also escaping electronic traffic challans. Since FASTag has become mandatory on most national highways, misuse of the digital toll collection system can directly impact government revenue and undermine the integrity of automated enforcement mechanisms.
The STF is now examining whether additional vehicles, agents or intermediaries were involved in the larger network.
Investigation Expands
The case is linked to an earlier FIR registered at Sarojini Nagar police station in Lucknow. Following the arrests, investigators are analysing documents, digital records and financial transactions to identify other individuals connected to the racket.
Officials have indicated that further arrests are possible as the investigation progresses.
Digital Verification Under Focus
The incident has once again highlighted the importance of robust verification systems for digital transport services. FASTag has significantly modernised toll collection across India, but experts say strict verification of vehicle registration documents and KYC details is essential to prevent misuse.
Authorities are expected to strengthen monitoring mechanisms to detect fake registrations and prevent similar frauds in the future.
Summary
The Uttar Pradesh STF has arrested two people for allegedly operating a fake FASTag racket using forged RCs and KYC documents. The fraudulent FASTags were reportedly used to evade toll payments and traffic e-challans, causing significant revenue losses. Investigators are now probing the wider network and examining the role of additional agents and intermediaries in the scam.
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