AUTHORITIES have sent out warnings after several incidents of thieves donning 'bogus' Greater Manchester Police uniforms and demanding money from the public.

A representative from GMP said the force had received several reports of fake officers who have been issuing illegitimate fines and in some cases threatening members of the public with searches and even arrests.

One such incident occurred last week near Manchester City's Etihad Stadium, where a young woman was stopped and ordered to hand over a large amount of money.

Detective sergeant Jonathan Barnett has moved to reassure the public that police are doing "everything possible" to catch the suspects.

He said: "It is important to remember that officers would never demand money to be paid on the spot and if you are given a fixed penalty notice, you will be given a form which explains how to pay and your legal rights.

"As well as this, officers will always carry official ID, which can be verified by any member of the public by calling 101.

"I’d also like to take this opportunity to appeal to anyone who may have witnessed any of these incidents to come forward. If you saw anything, no matter how insignificant you think it may be, please get in touch with us."

Anyone with information can call officers on 0161 856 1146, quoting incident number 103 of 30/05/19. Reports can also be made anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.