Northern Ireland

Complaints lodged over Moy police 'punch' video

Footage appears to show a PSNI member restraining a man by the throat
Footage appears to show a PSNI member restraining a man by the throat Footage appears to show a PSNI member restraining a man by the throat

COMPLAINTS have been lodged with the Police Ombudsman after a video emerged of a PSNI officer appearing to punch a man in the face during an altercation in Co Tyrone last weekend.

A solicitor for the man also said last night that legal action will be launched in the case.

The video appears to show an officer restraining a man by the throat on the ground before throwing a left-handed punch which strikes him in the face.

It has also been claimed by the legal team that pepper spray was used during the incident.

While the PSNI has said the “material has been referred to Professional Standards Department”, the officers featured in the video remain on duty.

Both the person pictured in the video and another man who was at the scene have now lodged a joint complaint with the ombudsman and are set to sue the PSNI.

Solicitor Owen Beattie, of KRW Law, last night said he could confirm that complaints have been submitted to the Police Ombudsman in relation to the incident.

“We have also written to the PSNI stating our intention to issue proceedings against their officer for the significant injuries caused to our clients.

“The horrific video that has circulated on social media and all other police footage requires thorough and forensic examination.”

Police have said two men, aged 28 and 34, have been charged with assault on police and disorderly behaviour and will appear before Dungannon Magistrates Court on December 17.

A spokeswoman for the PSNI said: “The matter is before the courts and as such, it would be inappropriate to comment any further.”

A spokesman for the Police Ombudsman said: “We have received a complaint alleging assault and unlawful arrest and detention by police during an incident in Moy in the early hours of Sunday 21 November.

“The complaint is now being assessed in line with normal procedures.”