A formal complaint has been filed against Police Scotland after an Edinburgh resident alleged he was violently restrained by eight officers during what was described as a welfare check, leaving him with bruises. The incident, which was captured on video by the man's mother, occurred as he was simply taking out his household rubbish.
Dramatic Restraint Caught on Camera
The altercation unfolded on a street in the Scottish capital. According to the account submitted to police, the man was approached by officers conducting a mental health check. The situation escalated rapidly, resulting in the resident being slammed to the ground and handcuffed. His mother filmed the scene, which she later described as a "heavy-handed" response from the authorities.
Eight Officers Involved in Incident
A key detail of the complaint centres on the number of officers present. The man claims he was restrained by eight police officers during the encounter. This significant show of force for a welfare check has raised serious questions about the proportionality of the police response. The physical intervention left the individual with visible injuries, which have been documented as part of the grievance process.
Formal Complaint and Ongoing Scrutiny
The resident has now submitted a formal complaint to Police Scotland, seeking accountability for the officers' actions. The case highlights ongoing concerns about how police manage incidents involving potential mental health crises. The use of force during welfare checks is a particularly sensitive issue, with advocates often calling for more de-escalation training and better coordination with health services.
This incident in Edinburgh, reported on 14 January 2026, adds to a national debate about policing methods. As the complaint is reviewed, attention will focus on whether the response was justified or if alternative, less confrontational tactics could and should have been employed.
