A GANGSTER who was cleared 15 years ago of murdering a North-east policeman was yesterday sent to prison for the kidnap and torture of two men.

Mark Lambie, 30, was jailed for 12 years after being convicted of bundling two men at gunpoint into a car and taking them to a flat in Tottenham where they were tortured with a hammer, electric iron and boiling water.

In 1987, Lambie was acquitted of murder over the killing of Sunderland-born PC Keith Blakelock during the 1985 Broadwater Farm riots.

Three other gang members were sentenced to terms of between nine and 12 years.

Old Bailey Judge Martin Stephens told them: ''The sentences I pass must reflect the public's outrage for the use of guns and violence by men who believe themselves above the law.

''Crimes are too prevalent and blight the lives of the whole community.''

During the trial, Lambie accused police of framing him and persecution since charges were dropped against him at the Old Bailey in 1987.

Lambie was only 14 when he was charged with others of murdering Pc Blakelock. Charges against him and two other juveniles were dropped during the 1987 trial.

Winston Silcott and two others were convicted but later cleared on appeal because of police irregularities.

In court, Lambie's counsel Stephen Kamlish said: ''Nobody could have been more under police scrutiny than him for the last 15 or so years.

''He is a sometimes dishonest wheeler dealer who unfortunately for him was charged in 1985 with the murder of Keith Blakelock a name that every Met police officer will never forget.

''It is Mark Lambie's case they can't let that acquittal go and ... they have been after him ever since.''

But the jury heard that Lambie had terrorised the community.

Later, Detective Superintendent Barry Phillips said: ''This is a tremendous day for the black communities as will as the police.

''They are sick and tired of having these types of people in their midst. We hope this case sends out a powerful message to those to live their lives by the gun.''