A young man from Hyderabad, diligently preparing for prestigious government jobs, has become the victim of an elaborate scam, losing over Rs 7 lakh to a fraudster who impersonated a former aide to the late President APJ Abdul Kalam. The Banjara Hills police have registered a case and are investigating the serious allegations of cheating and criminal intimidation.
The Deceptive Promise of a Government Job
The 28-year-old victim, who has been preparing for Group-I and Group-II examinations since 2018, encountered the accused, Syed Hyder Hussain, in September 2022. Hussain introduced himself as a former Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the revered former President. To build credibility, he reportedly showed photographs suggesting close ties with influential national leaders in Delhi and boasted of strong political connections in the capital.
Exploiting the aspirant's dreams, Hussain allegedly promised to secure a Group-I post for him. He gave assurances that payment could be made after selection and even in convenient instalments. Trusting these grand claims, the complainant began transferring money.
A Series of Payments and False Pretences
Between October 2022 and January 2023, the victim paid nearly Rs 6 lakh to Hussain. These transactions were made through digital means and in cash during multiple meetings. The accused did not stop there. Over the next two years, he continued to demand more funds at regular intervals.
He provided various excuses for these repeated demands, primarily citing expenses for individuals linked to national political leaders who were supposedly travelling from Delhi to Hyderabad to facilitate the job. The situation was further complicated by genuine delays in the Group-I recruitment process, which faced postponements and cancellations between 2022 and 2025 due to paper leaks and court orders, allowing the scam to persist.
Demands Escalate and Threats Begin
In July 2025, when job results were anticipated, the victim sought confirmation. Hussain allegedly demanded another Rs 1 lakh, calling it a necessary fee for final "confirmations" from the aides of national leaders. Burdened by mounting debt, the complainant paid this amount but finally refused any further demands.
When the aspirant and his family asked for a cheque as security for the total amount paid, which had now crossed Rs 7 lakh, the accused started evading them and began ignoring their calls. The interaction turned hostile when the victim asked for his money back. The complainant alleges that Hussain then resorted to threats and used abusive language, claiming he had powerful political backing that made him untouchable.
Police Investigation Underway
Faced with intimidation and financial ruin, the job aspirant approached the Banjara Hills police and filed a formal complaint. Based on his account, the police have registered a case and initiated an investigation into the matter. The authorities are now working to verify the allegations, track the financial transactions, and apprehend the accused, Syed Hyder Hussain.
This incident serves as a stark warning to job seekers, especially those preparing for competitive exams, to be extremely wary of individuals claiming to have direct access to secure government positions in exchange for money. It highlights how fraudsters exploit the anxiety and aspirations of candidates, often using the names of respected public figures to lend legitimacy to their scams.
