An exclusion zone to clear youths off the streets could soon be brought in after a 23-year-old man was stabbed when he was attacked by a gang in London’s East End the latest of a series of crimes.

The man was taken to hospital with several stab wounds following the attack in an alley at Bromley-by-Bow, between Rounton Road and Knapp Road, but was not detained.

Police are looking for a group of teenagers, aged between 13 and 16, who fled the scene after Monday night’s attack.

The youths are thought to be responsible for criminal activity and anti-social behaviour in the area in recent weeks, police revealed. One has been arrested and was later questioned.

Police and Tower Hamlets Council later issued reassurance messages in response to the increase in street crime around Devons Road.

“The behaviour of this group has caused a real feeling of intimidation,” Acting Det Insp Iain Harkes said. “We treat violence and anti-social behaviour seriously and will pursue those involved.”

Police and council enforcement officers have begun security measures around Devons Road in response to anti-social behaviour by youths.

Det Insp Harkes added: “This should send a clear message to those who think they can continue acting in this appalling way that we will take action.”

The council has put on more patrols, using mobile CCTV vans and sending out youth workers to gather evidence for 10 Anti Social Behaviour Order applications.

A Town Hall statement said: “We will continue to step up our presence in the area to discourage and deal with any further incidents.”

The authorities are applying for an emergency dispersal order zone, to allow police to remove groups of two or more from the area, which would include taking home anyone under 16 who is on the streets between 9pm and 6am without a parent or responsible adult.

Police, meanwhile, are appealing for witnesses to Monday evening’s stabbing at 8.30pm between Rounton Road and Knapp Road, or anyone in the area between 8 and 9pm who has information, to dial 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555111.