Tirumala, August 17, 2026: The TTD Vigilance Department foiled an attempt by a broker gang that was allegedly obtaining accommodation at the CRO office in Tirumala using fake identity documents and selling rooms to devotees at inflated prices.
One Person Arrested with Fake Aadhaar Cards
On August 16, CRO office staff noticed a person who had already secured a room standing in the queue again using another identity.
He was immediately apprehended and identified as Ashiq Ali P.M. (32), a resident of Malappuram district, Kerala.
During the search, officials seized two fake Aadhaar cards, a room registration slip, Rs.800 in cash and a mobile phone from him.
Accused Reveals Broker Network
During interrogation, Ashiq Ali reportedly stated that he had been engaged by a broker named Ranjith and was being paid Rs.1,000 per room.
According to the enquiry, his alleged role was to obtain rooms using fake identity documents and hand them over to the broker, who would subsequently sell the accommodation to devotees at higher prices.
TTD Vigilance is continuing the investigation to identify other members of the alleged gang.
Police Case Registered
Based on a complaint lodged by the TTD Vigilance Department, a case has been registered at the Tirumala-2 Town Police Station.
Police are investigating the case using technical evidence and are also verifying the authenticity of the fake Aadhaar cards.
Devotees Advised Not to Approach Brokers
TTD has advised devotees that Tirumala accommodation is meant exclusively for devotees and urged them not to approach brokers for rooms.
Devotees should not share Aadhaar details, photographs, phone numbers or other personal information with strangers.
TTD reiterated that accommodation should be obtained only through CRO counters, the official TTD website or the official TTD mobile app.
Report Suspicious Accommodation Activities
Devotees who are approached by brokers offering rooms for money, or who notice any suspicious activity, are requested to immediately contact:
TTD Vigilance & Security Control Room: 9866898630
TTD Call Centre: 155257
TTD has reiterated that strict legal action will be taken against brokers cheating devotees and all persons supporting such fraudulent activities.
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