London's Metropolitan Police (MPS) is trying to diffuse tensions in Tottenham after a police officer shot dead a suspected gangster. Jermaine Baker died from a single gunshot wound as police tried to stop a gang, suspected of trying to spring two Turkish mafia bosses from jail.

Witnesses at the time reported that the 28 year old suspected gang member "came out shooting". The claims, however, have been discredited. The father of two was killed as he sat in his car after receiving a bullet wound to his chest.

— Baz (@baz_j) December 15, 2015 Never unquestioningly believe the words of an institution who are on the defensive #jermainebaker — Caroline (@CedillaHonoring) December 15, 2015​

​Baker was suspected of being among five armed men preparing to help two criminals escape from a prison van en route to Wood Green Crown Court.

It's also understood Baker was a member of the Bloodline gang, which is affiliated with the Tottenham Man Dem gang that the MPS believed Mark Duggan — who was also shot dead by police in 2011 — belonged to.

— thatgirlwiththafro (@girlwiththafro) December 15, 2015 @metpoliceuk should be immune from prosecution when dealing with armed gangsters and terrorists even if using dummy weapons #jermainebaker — Harpenden Resident (@harpres) December 15, 2015​

​Both men were mixed race. Both men were from Tottenham. Both men were shot dead by police.

The 28-year-old was from Tottenham, where violence erupted and spread across the UK, following the fatal shooting of Mark Duggan.

Scotland Yard has already held a 'gold group' meeting to discuss the situation. Meetings with those in the community affected by Baker's death are also expected to be held later in Tottenham's Town Hall, as community leaders are on alert for any signs of unrest.

"The Independent Police Complaints Commission has launched a homicide investigation into Mr Baker's death. The launch of a criminal investigation does not mean that criminal charges will necessarily follow," s statement from the police watchdog said.

Four men have been remanded in custody in connection with the alleged plot to free the two convicts from a prison van.