A police watchdog investigation into the arrest of a black woman which sparked protests in Lewisham is underway. 

Footage has been shared widely of six police officers pinning down the 28-year-old, as she shouted "I can't breathe" on May 9. 

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has confirmed an investigation into her arrest and "subsequent treatment in custody" is taking place. 

An IOPC spokesperson said: “We are conducting an independent investigation following a referral we received on 30 May 2020 from the MPS.

“The investigation will look at the force used against a woman by a number of MPS police officers during a drugs search on 9 May 2020, and at the woman’s subsequent treatment in custody.”

The woman, who is from Lewisham, was later charged with obstructing a drugs search.

Police say a matter of assaulting an emergency worker was not proceeded with.

She was travelling as a passenger in a car that failed to stop for police, Scotland Yard said.

The driver, Carlton Ireland, 46, of Hither Green, was charged with drink-driving.

Protestors gathered outside Lewisham police station a week ago, calling for the officers involved to be suspended on the same day as thousands marched in central London following the death of George Floyd in the US.

The Mayor of Lewisham recently added to criticism of police, who he described as using “excessive force”.