Police officers have finally been given the green light to fight back against moped criminals as Scotland Yard says they will ram suspects off their bikes even if they are not wearing helmets.

Moped and motorcycle criminals will be targeted "at every opportunity", even when they ride dangerously, discard their helmets and disguise themselves, the head of the Met's Operation Venice Team has said.

Confusion over the existing rules meant many officers were reluctant to give chase to criminals, fearing that they will be hauled over the coals if the rider is injured or killed.

It saw moped gangs, who have been responsible for a recent wave in street violence and robberies, emboldened, believing they can make an easy getaway by simply removing their helmets.

But earlier this year the Home Office has said it wanted to “smash the myth” and give police officers the confidence to give chase knowing they will not be held responsible for the actions of the criminal.

Footage released on Friday by the Met show the tactics that specially trained drivers are now able to use to reduce the need for pursuits and prevent injury occurring to offenders and members of the public. The video includes examples of police ramming moped riders off their bikes, including one scenario where a rider is not wearing a helmet.