The police watchdog is investigating six Metropolitan police officers over the stop and search of a Black teenager in north London after he suffered a fractured knee during an encounter in Tottenham.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said it launched an investigation in November 2025 following a mandatory referral from the Met over a complaint made on behalf of the boy, who was 16 at the time.
According to the watchdog, the incident happened at about 2pm on 26 April 2025 on Northumberland Park Avenue, when an officer, who said they were concerned about the boy’s manner of riding and general behaviour, used force to remove him from an electric bike.
The boy injured his knee during the stop. He was searched, but nothing was found. Officers then removed the battery from the e-bike and told him he was free to leave, the IOPC said.
The watchdog said the teenager remained at the scene and was interacting with another group of officers when, a short time later, the original six officers returned and arrested him on suspicion of racially aggravated public order, threats to kill and dangerous driving.
He was taken into police custody, but after a medical examination his detention was refused so he could receive urgent treatment. Officers then took him to hospital, where he was diagnosed with a fractured knee.
The IOPC said its investigation is examining the decision-making and actions of the six officers involved, including the force used, whether the boy’s race or age played a role in how he was treated, and what aftercare was provided.
Since January, three officers have been told they are under criminal investigation.
One constable is being investigated for potential offences of assault occasioning grievous bodily harm or actual bodily harm, while two others are being investigated for intentionally encouraging or assisting an offence under section 44 of the Serious Crime Act 2007. All three are also being investigated for potential gross misconduct.
A further three constables were informed last week that they are being investigated for potential misconduct, in relation to alleged failures to challenge the conduct of the other officers and their treatment of the boy.
Amanda Rowe, an IOPC director, said: “The use of stop and search is an important policing tool, however it must be used proportionately.
“This is a serious case where a child has been injured as a result of force being used and we are investigating the officers’ actions in this case and their treatment of the child, who was not provided with immediate first aid.”
She added that the watchdog had been in contact with the boy’s family and had obtained further evidence as the investigation continued.
The IOPC said investigators have reviewed body-worn video, taken accounts from some of the officers involved, obtained a statement from the teenager and examined medical evidence. The officers are due to be interviewed under caution, while further witness statements are being gathered.
The watchdog said the issuing of notices does not automatically mean criminal charges or disciplinary proceedings will follow. At the end of the investigation, it will decide whether any officers should be referred to the Crown Prosecution Service and whether disciplinary action should be recommended.
