Two police officers have been injured in what the home secretary has described as a "disgusting, violent attack".
The officers stopped to help an apparent assault victim when they were set upon by a group of bystanders.
Video on social media shows an officer pinned down on the ground and being kicked, while his female colleague is pushed when she tries to intervene.
Several men surround the Scotland Yard officers swearing, shouting and filming on their phones, with one even dancing and taking a selfie during the assault.
Both officers suffered minor injuries in the incident, in Frampton Park Road, Hackney, east London, at around 3.30pm on Wednesday, Scotland Yard said.
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They had been flagged down by a member of the public who said they had been attacked and pointed them towards the suspects, a spokeswoman added.
The Metropolitan Police Federation, which represents rank-and-file officers, said attacks on officers seem to be increasing, adding: "Yet again this starkly shows the dangers @metpoliceuk face and the bravery they show each and every day keeping Londoners safe."
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Chairman Ken Marsh said: "We are not society's punchbags. We have families we want to go home to at the end of every shift. But the dangers are stark. And seemingly escalating."
Home Secretary Priti Patel tweeted: "Sickening, shocking & disgraceful.
"My thoughts are with the outstanding @metpoliceuk officers who were subject to this disgusting violent attack."
John Apter, chairman of the Police Federation, said: "Disgusting behaviour from those who attack the officers, those who film what's going oRead More – Source
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