THE officer who was involved in the arrest of a man in Porthmadog which has been shared widely on social media has been suspended by North Wales Police.

Videos circulated online of the incident on Wednesday (May 10), which North Wales Police later investigated.

Last night (May 12), the force confirmed the policeman has now been suspended, pending further investigations by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

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Police investigating arrest of Porthmadog man after video shared on social media

North Wales Police said: “We can confirm that the officer involved has been suspended from duty.

“The IOPC are leading the investigation and we are therefore unable to provide any further information.

“In relation to the man arrested, we can confirm that he was released on bail.”

The man arrested, 34, had initially been taken to hospital before later being transferred to custody.

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A previous statement from North Wales Police on Thursday (May 11) added: "We are grateful for the contact from members of the public highlighting this incident.

“But at this time, (we) would appreciate further contact being restricted to any potential witnesses to the actual incident, rather than those who have viewed the matter third-hand by video or other means.”

Amanda Blakeman, chief constable at North Wales Police, added on Twitter: "I’ve seen the footage this morning and I take this very seriously.

"There is an investigation ongoing so we can understand the incident fully and we have referred the matter to the IOPC."