Fake BMC 'Big Boss' Extorting Vadapav Vendors Arrested in Mumbai

• Vijay Ganpat Gawde, 62, posed as a fake 'Food Safety Officer' from BMC's Health Department.
• He targeted Vadapav vendors in Vikhroli, threatening them with penalties for lacking 'Fire Safety' and 'Food License' to extort money.
• Initially demanded 5000 rupees from 'Gupta Vadapav' in Vikhroli East in January 2026, settling for 800 rupees.
• Caught red-handed by Vikhroli Police when he returned to 'Gupta Vadapav' for more money after the shopkeeper became suspicious and alerted authorities.
• Vikhroli Police registered a case of fraud and impersonation; preliminary investigation suggests he robbed many other hawkers.