Winnipeg police have arrested a man who allegedly went around the city pretending to be an undercover officer.
Police sent out a warning last week, that between September 14 and 18, several people were approached by men posing as officers in Winnipeg and Brandon.
The men alleged that they were undercover officers, and would tell their victims that they were involved in an investigation or advise that the victims were potential suspects.
Police said the two men would then proceed to take valuables including wallets, cash and credit cards.
On Sept. 22, with help from the Brandon police, 36-year-old William Edward Thomas of Thunder Bay, was arrested in Brandon.
For his alleged involvement, Thomas was charged with 43 offences including personating a peace officer, theft, fraud and extortion.
On Sept. 25, Matthew Adam Bartel, 34, was arrested. Police said he has been charged with 38 offences including impersonating a peace officer, theft and fraud and extortion.
Police are reminding members of the public that officers not in uniform, but in plain clothes, will have an official badge affixed to their belt directly in front of their sidearm.
The safest strategy when approached by anyone in an official capacity is to confirm credentials and identification, police said. All officers are required to carry a badge and a warrant card to identify themselves as police officers.
