The Metropolitan Police has revealed it has successfully recruited a Somali police officer for the first time.
The probationary constable is undergoing training at an east London borough.
Senior officers have led a campaign to recruit staff from nations under-represented in the capital’s force.
These included people with Somali, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Polish and Turkish backgrounds.
New workforce figures showed one civilian worker, two community support officers and three specials with Somali backgrounds have also been recruited.
Chief Superintendent George Clarke, who works to promote community ties, said he was extremely pleased with the appointment.
He said: “We now have a Somali police officer going through training and we have another two who are waiting to start.
“Although this seems very small in an organisation of this size it is a significant shift and is through the work of outreach workers.”
Mr Clarke said the Somali officer does not want to be constantly sidetracked into wider liaison work.
He added: “There is a certain amount of excitement that we have made the first appointment and the individual is keen to take on the role of police officer. While they are willing to be an ambassador for the community there is no wish to be distracted from the work they have joined to do.”
