No less effort was put into this inquiry than we would put into many major terrorist investigations

DS Shepherd

He said police had done their job and the fact the Crown decided to go to court proved there was a case for the brothers, and two boys acquitted earlier, to answer.

Commenting on the verdicts DS Shepherd said: "They are a disappointment to us. We accept the decision of the court and now we must move on from here."

But he added: "We used all resources available and no less effort was put into this inquiry than we would put into many major terrorist investigations."

He said a deep-rooted gang culture on the North Peckham estate, where Damilola died, meant few people were prepared to help solve his death.

'Difficult' witness

Mr Griffiths said police would take on board all the criticisms made by the judge, but said officers could not be held responsible for events in the courtroom.

He also stood by Sergeant Carolyn Crooks, the officer responsible for working with witness Bromley, who claimed she saw the attack which led to Damilola's death.

Although she was the key witness, Bromley's evidence was demolished in court and the judge ruled that it was too unreliable to be considered by a jury.

Mr Griffiths said Sgt Crooks had done a very professional job, working with a witness who had "difficulties".