Former Metropolitan Police officers have launched a private police force, My Local Bobby (MLB), to patrol Belgravia, Mayfair and Knightsbridge.
The agency will make citizen’s arrests and gather evidence, according to the Sunday Times, allowing them to launch private prosecution if the evidence is strong enough.
Tony Nash, the retired former borough commander of Newham, said: “There is real talent in the police but it is stretched. We will be hoping to fill the gaps and enhance the service.”
The private force will also give residents the option of paying a monthly retainer, entitling them to anything from cyber security checks to an escort home from the Tube station at night.
MLB will also have access to the national police database, and will patrol the streets wearing uniform and body cameras.
It comes as a report by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary found that a shortage of police amounted to a “national crisis”, and as London’s police service faces severe budget cuts.
