Images of a police officer wearing a gang patch have emerged only days after the new ban's come into force

Two photographs of a police officer wearing a vest with the Mangu Kaha gang patch have been shared online.

Many commentators said the images showed double standards, as police have already arrested over a dozen people for wearing patches.

Police say this behaviour is disappointing and the officer pictured has come forward to take responsibility.

They say the image is understood to have been taken several months ago.