A total of 49 car enthusiasts have been fined for breaching Covid regulations after officers shut down an illegal car meet in Romford.
Police were called to reports that around 50 vehicles had gathered in the Ferry Lane area at just before midnight on Saturday.
Body worn camera footage shows officers approaching the cars after they found the group speeding around a nearby roundabout and mixing with other drivers without any social distancing.
Det Chf Supt Stephen Clayman said: "It is unacceptable that people are still breaking the rules at a time when there is so much pressure on the NHS. It is more important than ever before that people follow the regulations.
"The restrictions are clear enough and there is no excuse for this sort of selfish behaviour that puts lives at risk and causes a nuisance for nearby residents who are doing the right thing by staying at home.
"We understand that this is a very difficult time for everyone but our top priority as police officers is keeping people safe. If that means moving quicker to enforcement action for more wilful breaches, then we will do."
MPS specials who broke up the gathering tweeted: “This is not an essential journey! As a result, FPNs have been issued and further intelligence submitted.”
