LUCKNOW, Aug. 12 -- Police have warned residents to stay alert after reports of a gang allegedly posing as electricity department officials to gain entry into homes under the pretext of replacing smart prepaid meters. Wearing fake uniforms, carrying forged ID cards, and using vehicles resembling official ones, the suspects have caused concern in several neighbourhoods. According to police, the men, usually in groups of two or three, arrive at homes claiming they need to upgrade or replace existing meters. They carry tools, laminated IDs, and are often accompanied by a marked car parked nearby to appear genuine. However, when questioned for documents or details, they make excuses and leave quickly. In the past week, two incidents were reported in Indira Nagar and Qaiserbagh, where alert homeowners prevented suspected theft attempts. "They could not speak Hindi and were conversing in a South Indian language. Later, another man came from the car and spoke in English to appear authentic using fake IDs," Shailja Mishra said, who faced such an incident at her Ravindra Palli home. "When we informed the police, they fled." Police believe this is the work of an organised gang targeting houses after reconnaissance, especially where elderly people or women are alone. "The operation is too professional for it to be random," a senior officer said, adding that once inside, the suspects could commit theft, install illegal devices, or gather sensitive information. Authorities have advised residents to verify the identity of anyone claiming to be from the electricity department before granting entry, noting that genuine meter replacements are announced in advance with verifiable work orders. Assistant commissioner of police (ACP) Ghazipur Anindaya Vikram Singh said the matter will be investigated to identify those involved....