The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating a complaint of racial profiling after the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) detained a man in Lewisham, south London, on 13 May 2020.
This follows a complaint referral from the MPS received on 18 May 2020 in relation to the man who was handcuffed and searched by MPS officers who took no further action. The MPS voluntarily referred this matter to ensure that independent scrutiny and investigation were assured.
This investigation is one of several incidents which feature police use of force and alleged disproportionality across London, that the IOPC is looking at following increasing community concerns.
IOPC regional director Sal Naseem said:
“We are investigating the circumstances of this incident to determine whether the actions of the officers were appropriate and proportionate and followed approved police policies and procedures. We will also examine if the officers’ actions were motivated by racial discrimination.
“Communities across London have been expressing real and growing concerns about disproportionality and use of force, including stop and search being used disproportionately on black people.”
”It is right that serious matters and those which have impacted on public confidence are independently investigated,
“The outcome of our independent investigations will not be prejudiced and will remain impartial.”
Anyone who is unhappy about something that happened to them that involves the police can make a complaint to contact the police force involved. Police force websites include information about how to complain. People can also complain in writing, by telephoning 101 or visiting any police station.
Further information is available on the IOPC website at https://policeconduct.gov.uk/complaints-reviews-and-appeals/make-complaint |
