CRIMINALS could be looking to impersonate police officers following the theft of replica uniforms and equipment in the Forth Valley at the weekend.

Stab vests, t-shirts, trousers, hats, imitation batons and more were stolen from a prop and set production company in Limerigg near Slamannan and many of the garments are embroidered with ‘Police’.

The items “look very realistic”, warned Detective Chief Inspector Colin Campbell of Forth Valley CID, who is appealing for witnesses.

If in doubt about the authenticity of someone claiming to be an officer, people should ask for identification and call 101 if it is not provided, he advised.

Other items taken included police fleeces, handcuffs and PAVA spray containers; tools and vehicle diagnostic equipment were also stolen in the incident.

The break-in and theft took place sometime between 11pm on Saturday, August 31, and 12noon on Sunday, September 1, at the company based on Lochside Road in Limerigg.

DCI Campbell said: “At present we do not have a value for the stolen goods.

“However, our concern is that the suspects may look to use these to imitate police officers, as the props look very realistic.

"If you have any doubt about the authenticity of someone claiming to be an officer, ask to see identification and if they cannot provide it, then report them via 101.

"As part of this inquiry we would urge anyone who saw any suspicious activity around Lochside Road over the weekend, or who can help us identify the culprits, to contact police immediately.

"Similarly, if anyone has information as to the whereabouts of the stolen props and clothing, please also get in touch."

Those with information are asked to contact Forth Valley CID via 101, quoting the incident number 2094 of September 1.

Alternatively, remain anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.