London Mayor Boris Johnson has announced a new scheme to punish gang members collectively.

‘Operation Shield’ is to be trialled in Haringey, Lambeth and Westminster and will see gang members punished as a group for the actions of individuals.

Under the scheme, the arrest and prosecution of the main offender will be fast tracked with other members of the same gang facing a range of criminal and civil sanctions.

Boris Johnson said: “It’s time we gave these gang members a clear ultimatum – the police know who you are and if anyone in the gang steps out of line then every member will face consequences."