A routine coffee run turned awkward for a Sydney driver after police were filmed taking the keys from his unattended ute while he was inside a cafe, triggering scrutiny of the officers’ conduct.
The incident, captured on video, showed the man leaving his ute parked outside the cafe with the keys still in the ignition while he went in to buy a coffee.
Moments later, a group of officers who had been sitting inside were seen approaching the vehicle and removing the keys.
The driver appeared to come back out soon after and looked around for his keys before the officers, some of whom were seen laughing, spoke with him and eventually handed them back.
The footage then showed the interaction continuing, with several officers gathered around the man as they kept talking to him while he prepared to leave.
Under NSW law, motorists can be fined $114 for leaving a vehicle unattended and moving more than three metres away while the keys remain in the ignition.
NSW Police confirmed they had been in touch with the driver involved.
“NSW Police are aware of the incident captured in the video and have engaged directly with the member of the public involved,” police said in a statement.
“The conduct of the officers is now the subject of an investigation.
“Several officers have been placed on alternate duties pending the outcome.”
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