Detectives seek two men thought to have impersonated police officers

They were unable to gain access to a property after being challenged for identification

Detectives are looking to speak to two men who are thought to have impersonated police officers in order to gain entry to an address in east London.

Officers from the Metropolitan Police were called at 6.51pm on Tuesday, following reports that the two men had attended a residential block in The Shaftesburys.

The woman who reported the incident said the men claimed to be police officers and were wearing “crude” uniforms, including caps, harnesses and batons.

They claimed they were there to search the property but were unable to produce identification when asked by the residents.

After being further challenged the men left the property and were followed before they fled in the direction of Abbey Road.

Officers arrived and searched the area but were unable to locate the suspects.

The Met said it is not believed anything was stolen from the property and there were no reports of any physical injuries.

Footage of the incident was circulated on social media and police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

An investigation is ongoing and so far there have been no arrests.

People can report information by calling 101 with the reference CAD 6640/12 Oct or calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Issuing guidance on checking the identity of a police officer, the Met said: “Unfortunately, there have been occasions when fraudsters have posed as police officers, both in person and on the phone, to trick people into giving them personal information and defraud them of money.

“If one of our officers contacts you in person, they’ll show you their police warrant card. This is proof of their identity and authority.

“Remember if you’re unsure about whether the person you’re dealing with is a genuine police officer – stop – and call us on 101 to check their identity.”

In an emergency people are advised to always call 999.

Published: 14/10/2021 by Radio NewsHub