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'Fake French police' gang charged with robbing spree during lockdown

Four Iranian nationals were presented before French magistrates on Monday accused of impersonating police officers to search victims on the pretext of checking their movements under the current lockdown measures in France, when they allegedly stole cash and valuables estimated to be worth around 25,000 euros.

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Four alleged fraudsters stood trial in France on monday, accused of conducting fake police checks on people's permits to leave home during the lockdown, reports BBC News.

The woman and three men allegedly posed as officers and robbed victims after asking them to produce the official form people must carry away from home.

It is believed they stole 25,000 euros (£22,000; $27,000).

The four, who are all Iranian nationals, are being tried as France prepares to ease its lockdown curbs.

Since 17 March, people across the country have only been allowed to leave their homes to go to work, shop, exercise, seek care or conduct urgent family business.

While out, they are required to carry a certificate stating the reason for their trip.

Police say the gang impersonated officers and approached people wearing face masks. After asking to see their victims' forms, they allegedly searched bags and took whatever cash or valuables they could find.

In an interview with France Info radio, Police Commissioner Nathan Bauer said the suspects "did not speak very good French" and targeted foreigners.

He added that police had identified seven victims, and that 12,000 euros had been stolen from one of them.

Read more of this report from BBC News.