Police are investigating an allegation of assault by its own officers in a Brixton street, during which a man was left with a dislocated wrist.
The incident took place in Ferndale Road on July 20, when a young black man was allegedly assaulted by police shortly before midnight.
A white man and woman stepped in to stop the assault, but were themselves allegedly assaulted while the black man ran off. The 32-year-old man whose wrist was injured lodged a complaint shortly afterwards.
The incident was caught on CCTV cameras and pictures are now being studied in an attempt to trace the officers involved.
Assistant Commissioner Michael Todd said: On the face of things, it appears to be unacceptable behaviour by our officers.
I am determined to find out the full facts and take whatever action may be necessary.
The complaint is being investigated by the Metropolitan Polices directorate of professional standards under the supervision of the Police Complaints Authority.
Officers are appealing for witnesses to the incident, which took place on the same day as street disturbances in Brixton following the fatal shooting of Derek Bennett by police officers.
Technical experts are helping us enhance the CCTV tape, said Mr Todd.
This will help us to identify any other people in the area and the two or three officers involved, so that we can establish the full facts of what happened.
Police are appealing for anyone in the area at the time to contact them on 020 8247 5072. They insist any information will be dealt with in the strictest confidence.
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