WIREDGOV

The IPCC is to carry out a second investigation into use of force by British Transport Police (BTP) in a month, following a complaint made about the force used against a man at Kings Cross underground station.

The 19 year-old man was involved in an incident on 18 February where he sustained injuries following an altercation with a number of plain clothes officers from the BTP Behavioural Detection Unit. The incident was referred to the IPCC on the 14 March.

The investigation will examine events leading to interaction between the man and the officers, the appropriateness and level of any force used, as well their overall conduct during this incident.

This is the second investigation currently being conducted by the IPCC into BTP and how their officers have used force on members of the public within Kings Cross-St Pancras station. An incident that took place in St Pancras on 8 March is also being examined.

IPCC Commissioner Jennifer Izekor said:

“We are investigating two allegations that excessive force was used by BTP officers within a month at the same busy mainline station. The IPCC will be examining the incidents in question closely and liaising with BTP to establish if there are further issues surrounding training of officers or use of force policies that need to be addressed.

“I have been made aware that BTP has recently commissioned a report into the use of force by, and against, officers. I look forward to the outcome of that report and exploring whether it highlights any issues relevant to our investigations.

“Investigators have recovered CCTV of this second incident as well as obtaining officers initial statements. We will be maintaining contact with the man involved and updating him on our progress throughout the investigation.”

The IPCC is also appealing for witnesses or footage of this incident. If you saw the incident, events immediately prior to it, or have video or photos of either please email Hammersmithandcitytickethall@ipcc.gsi.gov.uk