Wiltshire Police are reassuring the public following the recovery of a fake Metropolitan Police uniform and warrant card during a recent drug-related arrest in Swindon.
Police say they uncovered body armour and a harness believed to be replicas, raising concerns about public safety and the potential for impersonation.
Superintendent Conway Duncan addressed the matter, emphasising the importance of public trust in law enforcement.
"The recovery of police uniform and fraudulent warrant card is concerning," he said.
"I want to remind people that if they are unsure whether the person they are dealing with is a genuine police officer, call us on 101 to check their identity immediately."
Duncan urged anyone feeling suspicious or uneasy about an individual in police uniform to reach out for help, highlighting that dialing 999 is appropriate in situations of extreme concern.
“If they feel extremely concerned or suspicious about whether someone in a police uniform speaking to them is genuine and they do not wish to challenge, then please dial 999 immediately,” he added.
To increase public confidence, Wiltshire Police have implemented a verification process. Officers are encouraged to proactively offer to conduct verification checks for community members who may be vulnerable or apprehensive.
An officer can confirm their identity by placing their personal issue radio on loudspeaker and requesting validation from a member of the control room.
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