“The man extorted cash from a number of people in the Bab Makkah area by pretending to be a police officer. He was caught while trying to take SR1,130 from a Yemeni national,” said Col. Misfer Al-Juaid, spokesman for Jeddah police.

He said the Yemeni, however, discovered that the man was an impersonator. “Realizing this, he began wrestling with him before he could take off with the money. People gathered around and were able to help subdue the man before police came,” said Al-Juaid.

The man was eventually arrested and his identity verified. “He is currently in custody and faces charges of extorting money from people and impersonating a police officer. Once convicted, he will be sent to jail,” he added.

Meanwhile, two pickpockets were arrested in downtown Jeddah. The two — one Ethiopian and the other Eritrean — were also charged with stealing from shops and shoppers.

“They are in police custody. Once investigations are over, they will be deported,” said Al-Juaid.