CCTV footage of police officers taking keys from the ignition of a ute and laughing has sparked an internal investigation from NSW Police.
The video shows an officer approaching the vehicle after the driver briefly left it parked and empty outside of Cafe Elle in Rouse Hill, northwest Sydney, about 10.50am Thursday.
The officer then shut off the engine and removed the key before sitting in the cafe with a group of other officers.
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They broke into laughter as the driver returned minutes later to find his car not only locked but his keys also missing.
One of the officers was then filmed talking with the man outside of the cafe, leading to what appeared to be a tense confrontation involving several more officers.
The man finally gets his car keys back and drove off, only to return to photograph the officers who were seen smiling and blowing kisses at the man.
The video was posted to social media just hours later and has since been viewed more than 2.3 million times with more than 240,000 likes.
It’s also attracted thousands of comments with many questioning the conduct of the officers.
“What was the point of this? This is so weird,” one wrote.
“They could’ve waited outside and wait for the owner of the car to come back then tell him it’s not a good idea to leave a car running with the keys inside,” another said.
The viral video has also drawn the attention of NSW Police, who confirmed an investigation is underway.
“NSW Police are aware of the incident captured in the video and have engaged directly with the member of the public involved,” police said.
“The conduct of the officers is now the subject of an investigation.
“Several officers have been placed on alternate duties pending the outcome.”
Drivers in NSW are required by law to secure their vehicles before leaving it unattended, that includes switching off the engine, removing the ignition key, locking the doors and closing the windows.
Failing to do so can result in a fine of up to 20 penalty units, or $2200.