This means that police officers can exercise their police powers while off duty, even when in plain clothes (inot in uniform). Police officers in plain clothes are obliged to provide proof of their identity without having to be asked. Police officers in uniform only have to show proof of identity if you ask them to.

Do police have to identify themselves UK?

The police arrest procedure If youre arrested the police must: identify themselves as the police. tell you that youre being arrested. tell you what crime they think youve committed.

How do you identify a police officer UK?

An officer will identify themselves by showing you their warrant card. This is proof of their identity and authority. If you want to verify their identity, you can ask for their collar number and call 101 to check they are who they claim to be.

Can you swear at a police officer UK?

You could be arrested for swearing in the street. There are various offences which can be committed involving the use of threatening abusive words or behaviour. However, a person is only likely to be arrested for this offence if the behaviour occurs in the presence of a police officer.