A ULEZ camera pole was cut down just days after it was installed.

Pictures are circulating online of a ULEZ camera installed on a pole at the junction of Hacton Lane and Little Gaynes Lane in Upminster, which was damaged and left on the grass.

It is understood that it was put up near The Optimist Tavern earlier this week, but the pole appeared to have been damaged by Saturday (September 30).

Since the expansion of ULEZ cameras across the capital, so-called ‘blade runners’ who are against the ULEZ scheme have been cutting down posts and damaging cameras in London.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, who made the decision to expand ULEZ to the whole of London from August 29, previously warned people attacking cameras that “protest should be lawful, safe and peaceful”, adding “it is really important to stay on the right side of the law".

In recent weeks, reports of vandalism to the ULEZ cameras have included cutting of the camera’s wires, painting over the lens, or completely removing the device.

Romford Recorder: An example of another cut down pole elsewhere in London - this one in BromleyAn example of another cut down pole elsewhere in London - this one in Bromley (Image: Terry Burt)

Another image shared on the Havering Community public Facebook group shows a camera attached to a traffic light in the same area, with white paint sprayed over the lens.

The Metropolitan Police said it is dedicating a “significant amount” of resources to tackling ultra-low emission zone camera-related crime, the force’s commissioner has said.

There were 510 crime reports relating to ULEZ cameras logged between April 1 and the end of August.

There have been approximately 160 reports of cameras being stolen and 350 cameras being damaged, according to Met Police figures.

The actual number of cameras affected may be higher as one report can represent multiple offences.

A Transport for London spokesperson said last month that camera vandalism will not stop the Ulez operating London-wide.

They added: “All vandalised cameras are replaced as soon as possible.

“We have an extensive camera network which is sufficient to support the effective operation of the scheme.”

People who drive in the zone in a vehicle that does not meet minimum emissions standards are required to pay a £12.50 daily fee or risk a £180 fine, reduced to £90 if paid within 14 days.