The “killer clown” craze sweeping Britain is set to get worse in the run-up to Halloween, police have warned.
The Met said it was investigating a series of incidents where people had been dressed as clowns to cause fear. Three cases have so far been deemed criminal offences.
Police forces across Britain have reported dozens of incidents linked to the “killer clown” craze, thought to be inspired by US pranksters.
A Met spokesman said: "In the run up to Halloween it is expected that these types of incidents will increase.
“Our primary responsibility is identifying and investigating those incidents where a criminal offence has occurred.
"However, anti-social behaviour can leave people feeling scared, anxious and intimidated and I would urge those who are causing fear and alarm to carefully consider the impact their actions have on others.
The Met is launching its annual Autumn Nights campaign in the coming weeks.
This means officers working in partnership with other agencies will be carrying out additional reassurance patrols during this period.
The spokesman added: "Whilst we do not want to stop people from enjoying themselves it is important that while having fun they remember to act in a responsible manner and understand that they could be prosecuted if a criminal offence is committed."
A 19-year-old student dressed as a clown and brandishing a chainsaw caused panic after running through Brunel University campus yesterday.
In Archway, a man dressed as a clown and armed with a knife chased a woman down the street in the early hours of Sunday.
Thames Valley Police reported dealing with 14 clown-related reports in 24 hours over the weekend, with more recorded since.
