A POST has been circulating social media suggesting a fake police vehicle was in Newport attempting to pull drivers over last weekend.

On Sunday, November 7, a social media post - shared hundreds of times - claimed a grey van had been seen on the M4 from High Cross (junction 27) and other Newport roads, with blue lights and sirens on trying to pull people over.

The post claims that the van had bald tyres, prompting the person who spotted it to check the plates, discovering the van had no MOT, raising their suspicions. Although this does not necessarily mean it was not a legitimate police vehicle, the post also claimed police had confirmed the vehicle was not associated with them

According to The Motor Vehicles (Tests) Regulations 1981 there are exemptions to having an MOT, including: “A vehicle provided for police purposes and maintained in workshops approved by the secretary of state as suitable for such maintenance”.

A spokeswoman for Gwent Police said they were unable “to find any reports of such activity” - the public are encouraged to report suspicious behaviour or vehicles to the police.

People should also know their rights:

  • In the UK unmarked police vars can ask drivers to pull over, but the police officer must be wearing a uniform to legally carry out the stop.
  • If you’re being stopped by an unmarked vehicle and doubt that it’s genuine you should ask a passenger to call the police to verify their identity.
  • If there is not a passenger who can make a call available, you should slow down but continue to drive to the nearest police station or public area (such as a petrol station) before pulling over.
  • Keep doors and windows locked until you get a good look at the person – if they’re not wearing a uniform report to the police.
  • If they’re in uniform but you’re still uncertain ask to see their warrant card.

You can report incidents to police via social media or call 101 - in an emergency always dial 999.