POLICE have released dramatic footage showing new tactics to tackle thieves on mopeds.

The videos show specially trained officers using their cars to knock riders off their bikes.

London's Metropolitan Police say they will target criminals 'at every opportunity', even when they ride dangerously and discard their helmets.

Commander Amanda Pearson said: "Operation Venice can call on all manner of tactics from an experienced investigation team to police helicopters to tackle and arrest offenders.

"There is a perception that if you remove your helmet or fail to stop for police when requested to do so we will not take any further course of action. This is untrue.

"The public quite rightly expects us to intervene to keep London safe. Our highly trained police drivers weigh up the risks and decide upon the most appropriate tactics in those circumstances.

"Offenders on mopeds and motorcycles who attempt to evade the police are making a choice that puts themselves and others at risk.

"So our message is clear: we can, we will and we do target those involved in moped and motorcycle crime at every opportunity."

Leigh Journal:

In some cases, criminals have stolen up to 30 mobile phones in an hour.

Thieves also snatch handbags and high value watches.

Latest year-on-year figures for moped crime show that in January 2017 to October 2017 there were 19,455 offences across London compared to January 2018 to October 2018 when there were 12,419 offences (7,036 fewer offences) - a fall of 36 per cent.

Latest year-on-year figures for theft of mopeds show that in January 2017 to October 2017 there were 12,192 offences across London compared to January 2018 to October 2018 when there were 8,261 offences (3,931 fewer offences) - a reduction of 32 per cent.