Police are appealing for information after a woman was assaulted and robbed when she was pulled over by two men impersonating police in Wagga Wagga last night.

About 8.45pm (Friday 6 March 2015), a 21-year-old woman with her 20-month old boy was driving a silver coloured Hyundai Elantra on Inglewood Road when she was followed by a car described as a black Ford sedan.

The car used red and blue flashing dash lights to pull over the woman.

Two men wearing clothing described as similar to police uniforms allegedly got out of the sedan and requested the woman hand over her driver’s licence before saying they were going to search her car.

The woman became suspicious and challenged the two men before they allegedly assaulted her, took her purse, and drove away.

The woman received minor injuries from the incident.

Police from Wagga Wagga Local Area Command are investigating the incident and are hoping to speak with two men who might be able to assist with inquiries.

One of the men is described as having a dark complexion, approximately 180-185cm tall, in his mid 30s. He was wearing blue coloured cargo pants, short sleeved shirt, a hat described as similar to an antron (formal) police hat, and carrying a torch.

The second man is described as having a medium build, with a full-length beard and a shaved head. He was wearing dark cargo pants and a light coloured short-sleeve shirt, with no hat.

Investigators are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

Tips for the public when they are suspecting a person is impersonating a police officer:

* Always ask for official police identification. A police officer’s badge will have a coloured backing and have a separate photo identification card. If you have any concerns, contact the police station the officers belong to in order to verify their identity. Always source the phone number independently rather than calling a number provided by suspicious individuals. People can also call verified police phone numbers, such as the Police Assistance Line (131 444), Crime Stoppers (1800 333 000) or of course Triple Zero (000) in case of an emergency.

* Any officers executing a search warrant should provide you with a copy of the warrant outlining all the details, including your rights. Search warrants will always be videotaped and an independent officer will be present; any concerns should be directed towards the independent officer.

* Always look for the officer’s arms and appointments. All officers should be in possession of a police radio.

* The incidents we are made aware of involved unmarked vehicles.

* Incidents of people impersonating police officers are rare.