Met launches inquiry after video posted of officer punching suspect

POLICE are investigating a social media video appearing to show an officer repeatedly hitting a man in the head during an incident in east London.

The footage, posted to Twitter, shows several officers standing beside a police van outside Kingsland Shopping Centre in Dalston on Saturday.

It shows a man detained by officers struggling before he is struck in the head five times while on the ground.

The Metropolitan Police said officers were carrying out a pre-planned operation “targeting e-scooters and mopedenabled crime” when they stopped a man who they said was wanted for immigration offences.

As officers arrested the man a crowd gathered in an attempt to stop them and a number of officers were assaulted during the incident, police said.

The force added “any footage showing use of force” was being “reviewed” by the Directorate of Professional Standards.

In a statement, the force said: “We are aware of a number of videos on social media filmed during the incident. We would urge people to remember that such videos rarely provide a full and accurate picture of what is taking place.

“Police officers are aware that any use of force must be proportionate and reasonable, and they understand that their actions will be scrutinised as they go about their work and that they will be held to account where appropriate.”

Nine people were arrested for offences including violent disorder. They remain in custody.