An investigation into Gwent Police over allegations that an officer assaulted a black man is at an 'advanced stage', the police watchdog has confirmed. Mikael Boukhari claims he was punched and repeatedly struck with a baton by an officer in Bettws, Newport, last July.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said it is examining whether the officer's use of force was 'reasonable, proportionate and necessary'. Mr Boukhari said he required hospital treatment for injuries including a broken hand sustained during the incident.
The altercation occurred after Mr Boukhari was asked to produce documents at a park. He said he ran when the officer tried to grab him, and was pursued to a friend's garden. The friend, who recorded the incident on a phone, said they saw the officer spray Mr Boukhari with pepper spray and punch him several times.
Mr Boukhari said he struggled to breathe as the officer knelt on his chest and pressed a baton against his neck. The footage shows the officer handcuffing Mr Boukhari after punching him in the head. Mr Boukhari remains under investigation for assaulting and obstructing an officer.
The IOPC will decide whether to refer the officer to the Crown Prosecution Service for possible criminal charges and whether there is a case for gross misconduct. Gwent Police said it takes officer conduct 'extremely seriously' and will act where necessary.
