The two women were approached in the street, near to the Stratford Centre (credit: Google Maps)
The suspect approached the two women, on Friday, 29 January, in the street near to the Stratford Centre, and claimed to be a police officer.
He told them they had breached Covid regulations and escorted them to a cash point, where he asked for £500 as a fine for breaching the regulations.
Officers witnessed the event so arrested the man.
The man was subsequently charged with blackmail and impersonating a police officer.
Detective Inspector Vince Fedder, from the Met’s North East Criminal Investigation Unit, said: “Thankfully officers were on scene and quickly dealt with this incident.
“However the public need to be aware that some people may well see the current emergency as an opportunity to exploit others.
“I appreciate that these are frightening and lonely times for many people and we want to be careful not to cause further distress or worry.
“However, a general conversation on how to spot a bogus officer may stop someone falling victim to these scams.
“If you think that you, or anyone you know, has been the victim of such a fraud, then please contact police on 101.”
The Met Police advise that in the event a police officer needs to speak with you, if they are not in uniform they will identify themselves clearly by showing you their warrant card.
This is proof of their identity and authority.
A genuine warrant card will have a hologram and the signature of the Commissioner, not the holder.
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Tags: Newham, Stratford, Metropolitan Police
