THE Independent Office for Police Conduct has opened an investigation into the actions of a West Yorkshire Police officer following the arrest of a man in Halifax on August 16.

Video footage of the incident was circulated widely on social media showing officers restraining a man on the ground.

West Yorkshire Police voluntarily referred the incident to the IOPC.

Anyone who may have seen the incident, which occurred at around 3pm on Sunday, August 16, in Spring Hall Lane, Halifax, is asked to contact the IOPC by calling 0300 3035730, or by emailing SpringHallLane@policeconduct.gov.uk

Miranda Biddle, IOPC Regional Director, said: “We can understand why the images circulated have caused considerable public concern and we would like to reassure members of the community that we have taken the decision to independently investigate this incident after West Yorkshire Police made a voluntary referral to us.

“An investigation has now commenced to ensure that we are able to fully understand what happened. It is vital that we are able to impartially determine the facts.

“We have already begun to gather evidence but we would like to speak to anyone who was in Spring Hill Gardens in Halifax at around 3pm on Sunday who may have witnessed this incident.”