An Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) officer and his accomplice will apply for bail later this month in the Boksburg Magistrate's Court after they were charged with robbing a truck carrying masks.

"The allegations are that, on 14 May 2020, accused one was driving an official EMPD vehicle when he stopped a truck that was transporting masks," Gauteng National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said in a statement on Wednesday.

"He instructed the driver to alight from the truck, pointed him with a firearm and forced him into another vehicle, driven by accused two, that was parked behind the EMPD vehicle."

A further two suspects in the EMPD vehicle assisted in the robbery.

"The suspects drove off in different directions, using both vehicles, whilst one of them drove the truck," she added.

'Apprehended with official firearm, badge'

Police saw the activity and a chase ensued, which led to the EMPD officer attempting to jump out of his vehicle while the car was in motion.

"The car bumped a truck that was stationary at the robot. He tried to run away but was apprehended with his official licensed firearm and badge," Mjonondwane said.

Police discovered a firearm without a serial number underneath a seat in the car.

In addition, the registration number on the official vehicle was found to be false, with the true registration number underneath the false number plate.

The suspects are charged with robbery with aggravating circumstances, kidnapping, possession of an unlicensed firearm and defeating the ends of justice.

The matter was postponed on Monday to 28 May for a formal bail application, where the State intends to oppose bail.