The teen shot dead by a gang of bicycle-riding youths has been identified as Abukar Mahamed.

The 16-year-old, from Tulse House on the Tulse Hill estate, was gunned down yesterday morning outside Cassell House in Stockwell Gardens estate.

The Somali-born victim, who was left dying from a single gunshot wound, was found by officers investigating reports of shots being fired at around 12.15am.

Detective Inspector Geoff Whitehouse, from Operation Trident, said yesterday he was keeping an open mind as to a motive for the killing.

He said: "Whilst the investigation is at an early stage, it would appear that ... the victim was pursued within the Stockwell Gardens estate by a group of between five to seven black males riding pedal cycles."

Witnesses have described the suspects as wearing bandanas in an attempt to conceal their faces.

"A number of shots were fired towards the victim outside Cassell House, resulting in him being fatally wounded.

"The suspects, who we now believe to have been carrying two firearms, then made off into the alleyway next to Packington House.

"I would urge anyone who saw a group of youths on bicycles in the area around this time, or indeed who may have seen other suspicious activity, to contact the incident room on 020 8247 4553, or if they wish to remain anonymous they can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

There have been no arrests so far and the police investigation continues.