15 Sep 2016

Fake-officer fears after police gear filched

6:38 pm on 15 September 2016

Police uniforms, handcuffs and batons are among equipment stolen from the Te Awamutu Police Station, in Waikato.

Close up of the back of a police officer wearing a vest.

Stab-resistant body armour was also taken from the Te Awamutu Police Station (file) Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly

Police said the burglary happened on Tuesday, and the items might have been stolen by someone wanting to impersonate a police officer.

They were asking people who were approached by an officer in the area to establish their identity if they had any doubts.

Stab-resistant body armour and pepper spray was also taken from the station.

Impersonating a police officer is a crime and carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in prison and a fine of $15,000.

Police said an officer's personal car was also damaged on Wednesday, and the burglary was one of a series in Te Awamutu this week.