Officers from the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) and SAPS are working together to arrest a group who pose as TMPD officers.

The joint operation comes after the police received numerous complaints about criminals posing as metro police in Centurion and the R511 road from Diepsloot.

TMPD spokesperson Isaac Mahamba said the suspects were masquerading as law enforcement personnel and were using an unmarked vehicle.

“They are wearing TMPD uniforms and driving an unmarked vehicle with blue lights. These criminals stop drivers and rob and hijack them.”

These incidents are occurring mostly in Centurion and at the R511 Road from Diepsloot to Hartbeespoort, Mahamba added.

“Community members are encouraged to be extra cautious and stay alert on the road. Even though some might be reluctant to come forward, we encourage members of the public with any information regarding these criminals to report such to their nearest police station.”

Meanwhile, police spokesperson Sergeant Tumisang Moloto urged residents to be vigilant, adding that their security alarms should always be activated.

“Also check that all windows and doors are properly closed,” Moloto said and encouraged local security to work with the police.

According to Moloto, suspects are driving around in a Volkswagen Polo which was fitted with blue lights and the vehicle was last seen along the R511 road.

“Local police are on the lookout for armed suspects who are driving a white Avanza as well as the specified VW Polo.”

He said police were taking the matter seriously such that they have deployed most of the resources in the area to increase visibility in all the affected areas.

“We also advise the public to stop hitchhiking which could lead to people becoming victims of crime.”