Hundreds of officers have been out arresting people linked to outstanding domestic violence cases, as well as race, faith and homophobic crimes.

One man was arrested at work and others were held on suspicion of deception, racially aggravated damage and assault.

Police want to show those involved they are not above the law, and encourage more witnesses to come forward.

Tackling hate crime and domestic violence remains one of the Met's top priorities Commander Steve Allen

Officers from each of the Met's 32 Community Safety Units, supported by other officers, have arrested 156 suspects in outstanding cases - including those who recently failed to appear at court.

Partners of those arrested will be given "appropriate support", police said. Domestic violence charity Refuge is backing Wednesday's action.

Violence in the home makes up 25% of all violent crimes investigated by the Metropolitan Police.

Hate crime combined with domestic violence accounts for 10% of all London's reported crime.

Commander Steve Allen said many victims felt they had nowhere to turn to, and the force hoped to reassure them that a team of specialists was in each London borough to help.

"Tackling hate crime and domestic violence remains one of the Met's top priorities," he added.