Investigation into use of force during arrest in Porthmadog

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has decided to independently investigate an incident involving an officer in Porthmadog, North Wales yesterday (10 May), following our assessment of a referral from the force.

We became aware this morning (Thursday) that a video of the incident was being shared widely on social media. North Wales Police subsequently referred the matter to us.

We understand that officers arrested a man at an address after being called to a domestic incident.

We have been advised that the man was taken to hospital for treatment after the arrest before being transferred into custody.

IOPC Director David Ford said: “Footage on social media, capturing part of the interaction between police officers and the arrested man has, understandably, attracted significant interest and public concern. It is important that we thoroughly and independently investigate the whole incident, in order to establish whether the level of force used during the arrest was reasonable and proportionate in the circumstances.”