Police have arrested five men allegedly linked to a network that sold fraudulent motor insurance certificates to thousands of drivers in Britain.

“After interrogating the databases behind the criminal service, we have identified, arrested and dismantled this criminal network,” Detective Constable Harry Ingham-Halshaw from London’s Metropolitan Police said.

“We will continue arresting those responsible, ensuring the safety of London’s roads are maintained.”

Two men aged 18 and 21 were held on suspicion of fraud by false representation and released under investigation.

Three men aged 19, 22 and 26 were arrested in relation to supplying articles for use in fraud and remanded in custody ahead of a court appearance later this month.

A joint operation involving the Metropolitan Police, City of London Police and the Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department was launched following the discovery of several “fraudulent websites”.

The IFED says it uncovered a network selling “spoof vehicle insurance apps” designed to deceive officers during traffic stops. It says thousands of false certificates were sold.

Authorities believe the main perpetrator is a former Metropolitan Police officer who was sacked from the force for driving without insurance.

Police have urged drivers to verify their insurance status, warning those caught with fraudulent cover could face charges for driving without insurance and risk having their vehicles seized.