'Tune in soon': Leeds paedophile hunters Predator Exposure vow to keep on exposing abusers

The group, called Predator Exposure, confronted men after they had taken part in online chats with group members posing as teenagers, Leeds Crown Court heard.

Six of the group went on trial accused of charges including false imprisonment and common assault.

After just over a day of deliberations, they were cleared of all charges following an eight-day trial.

Shouts of "Yes!" came from the public gallery where the defendants' friends and family were seated.

Outside on the court steps the defendants and supporters wiped away tears and exchanged hugs and high fives.

-> Leeds paedophile hunters cleared of all charges in court'We'll be back hunting soon'

Philip Hoban, 43, who set up the group, lit a thick cigar to cheers from supporters, and said: "This is just the first start and we'll be back hunting, very soon. Tune in people."

The group said it would be releasing a full statement on their website later.

Earlier jurors heard that the members detained and verbally abused two men and used unnecessary force against one, who was allegedly put in a headlock and dragged out of a shop against his will.

The defendants denied all the charges against them, claiming they were making lawful citizen's arrests.