Northern Cape police have foiled crimes in which criminals planned to use their uniforms to deceive victims.

Officials found stolen police uniforms, rank insignia, and equipment at a house in Galeshewe. Kimberley, on Wednesday (17/4) after they received information about planned robberies.

The Kimberley Flying Squad, Multi-Dimensional Crime Intelligence, Provincial Organised Crime, and the Kimberley K9 Unit headed the operation. During the raid, three suspects were arrested on charges of possession of suspected stolen goods and illegal possession of firearms.

Although it’s a rare occurrence in Kimberley it is not as rare in other cities with multiple reports in the past few years in Gauteng where civilians go out in official police uniforms and do harm within communities.

‘They were arrested on charges of impersonation’

Two men were arrested on charges of impersonation as well as extortion of money from business owners in Johannesburg in November. One of the arrested had a SAPS appointment card. During preliminary investigations, it was found SAPS did not employ them.

News24 reported last year about bogus cops in Welkom. 

Kimberley residents are advised when noticing anything suspicious to ask for an appointment certificate and perusal number. Immediately report suspicious activity to the police, said Cherelle Ehlers, police spokesperson.

OFM News/Casey-Lee Anthony dg