Appeal for information in connection with incidents involving impersonating police in Widnes

Officers are appealing for information from the public in connection with two incidents involving impersonating police in Widnes.

The first incident occurred shortly after 1am on Sunday 28 November.

A man and a woman, both aged 19, were walking along Sinclair Avenue when two men got out of a white van stating they were police officers.

The men stopped the couple and then conducted a search.

They tried to goad the woman into the van but she refused and the men drove away from the area.

A short time later the two men assaulted a 61-year-old man by punching him to the face.

The assault occurred at around 2.20am on Milton Avenue.

The men told the victim they were police officers and told him to get inside the van.

A friend of the victim came to his aid and took the man home.

He had sustained a large cut to his head which required hospital treatment.

The men had with them a dog described as a Pit Bull Terrier.

Both incidents were reported to police and a number of enquiries have been ongoing including reviewing CCTV footage.

Chief Inspector Caroline Mullen-Hurst, of Widnes Local Policing Unit, said: “I want to reassure the public that incidents like these are very rare.

“Since they were reported we have been following numerous lines of enquiry and are appealing to anyone who may have been approached by these two men in similar circumstances.

“I also want to appeal to anyone who may have witnessed the incidents, have CCTV or dash cam footage or information that may assist the investigation to please get in touch.

“If you are approached by someone stating they are a police officer we would recommend you to ask for their warrant card. If in any doubt, contact the police on 101 to verify their identity or if you think you may be in danger please call 999.”

A 20-year-old local man was arrested on suspicion of impersonating a police officer and assault. He has been released under investigation.

If you have information please contact Cheshire Constabulary online quoting IML 1143304.

Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.