Remove the blue lights - Police warn motorists as 'fake cops' reports surface

The police have renewed their directive to motorists not to install blue, flashing lights on their vehicles as reports have resurfaced that criminals are carrying out unscrupulous acts using vehicles resembling that of the police.

Information reaching our news desk is that the police will now take steps to clear the streets of vehicles with these lights.

In a release yesterday, the police said they are aware of a voice note being circulated on social media making reference to motorists being allegedly stopped by persons dressed as officers, travelling in an unmarked vehicle with blue lights flashing.

DON'T BE FOOLED

Our news team also recently received a WhatsApp post saying: "Be on the lookout for a white Toyota Corolla with blue flashing lights ... They are robbers not cops, don't be fooled by the car or the clothes. They may try to pull you over like traffic cops. Do not stop for them. Head to a safe crowded place."

The police say they are aware of at least two reports and have since stepped up efforts to further educate the public as the matter is important and urgent.

In the release sent to THE STAR, the police said: "Motorists who have modified their vehicles with flashing lights and/or sirens that imitate those used by authorised emergency vehicles, such as police vehicles, ambulances, and fire engines are being warned to remove them immediately."

The Police High command further states that those who ignore this warning would face the full brunt of the law, including the seizure of the vehicles.

THE STAR gathered that some of these flashing light devices are readily available for sale over the counter at some motor sales stores islandwide.

Police investigators are appealing to individuals who may have been victims, or who may have information that can assist in the arrest and charge of these perpetrators to contact the Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Investigations Branch at 876-937-1389.

Individuals may also share information through Crime Stop at 311, 811 or police 119 emergency number.