Pic: Metropolitan Police

An investigation has been launched by  the police watchdog following the death of a man who was being restrained by police officers in Lewisham.

Police were called to a house in Polsted Road, in Catford on Friday afternoon, after reports of a man attempting to gain access to the rear gardens of surrounding properties.

The Metropolitan Police and the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said the 35-year-old man appeared to be having a mental health crisis and body worn video footage shows the man in an agitated state.

The man was restrained and London Ambulance Service was called to the scene. His condition worsened while paramedics were at the scene and he was transferred to Lewisham Hospital where he later died.

Next of kin have been informed and a post-mortem examination has been scheduled.

The IOPC were informed of the incident by the Metropolitan Police Service and have declared an independent investigation.

IOPC Regional Director Jonathan Green said: “Our investigators have begun reviewing body-worn video footage obtained from all officers who attended the incident and are undertaking door-to-door enquiries in the area.

“My thoughts are with the man’s family and friends and to all those affected at this time and we will look to issue more information when appropriate.”

Detective Chief Superintendent Tara McGovern of Lewisham Police said: “Our thoughts are with the family of the deceased at this extremely difficult time. Where a person dies following contact with the police it is right and proper that police refer the incident to an independent body to review the circumstances surrounding the death which happened immediately in relation to this incident.

“We are reassured to know that the deceased’s family is being supported and we are offering support to the officers involved in the police response.

“We are, and will continue to, provide our full support and co-operation to the IOPC investigation.”