Following a recent burglary in Swindon – during which offenders who were not wearing uniform or carrying identification, falsely claimed to be police officers – we are reminding the public of existing safeguards against such claims.
Detective Superintendent Charlotte Tucker said: “Anyone who is unsure whether the person they are dealing with is a genuine police officer can call us on 101 to obtain that reassurance.
“We offer a simple verification process for the public which will allow them to confirm that an officer is on duty.
“All officers can also offer to carry out a verification check for anyone they engage with, if they appear concerned for their safety or who might be vulnerable.
“The officer can do this by putting their personal issue radio on loudspeaker and asking a member of our control room to confirm who they are and that they are on duty.
“In an emergency always dial 999.”
