A man’s been ‘fined’ £400 by fake police officers after being pulled over in Chippenham.
The male driver had been driving along Hardenhuish Lane when the driver of a black BMW travelling behind him flashed his lights and indicated for him to pull over which he did.
A man and woman got out of the BMW and told the driver they were undercover police officers – they said he must pay a £400 fine for being outside. The driver paid the money but was not given any paperwork in relation to the fine.
PC Jamie Darvill said: “We are conducting enquiries in relation to this incident to try and identify those involved, however, it is really important that the public understand undercover police officers would not be conducting these kinds of patrols or vehicle stops.
“Any vehicle stops conducted by officers in relation to Covid-19 restrictions will be high visibility, and fines will be issued as a last resort. Members of the public are also within their rights to ask to see a police officer’s warrant card if they have any concerns about their identity.
“It is extremely disappointing to hear that anyone would use this current pandemic as an opportunity to scam people out of money, especially when many people are feeling anxious and uncertain, and some may be struggling financially.”
