Six Met officers investigated after black child suffers broken knee in Tottenham search

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has revealed that six officers from the Metropolitan Police are under investigation following an incident in north London where a 16-year-old boy sustained a broken knee during a stop and search operation. The boy was riding an electric bike along Northumberland Park in Tottenham in April 2025 when officers intervened, reportedly due to concerns about his behaviour.

According to the IOPC, the investigation began in November and is focusing on several factors: the appropriateness of the force used, whether the boy’s race or age influenced how officers treated him, and the adequacy of the care he received afterwards. The Metropolitan Police described the allegations as “concerning” and officially referred the complaint made on the boy’s behalf to the watchdog. Initial searches yielded no incriminating items, but officers removed the battery from the boy’s electric bike and later returned to arrest him on suspicion of racially aggravated public order offences, threats to kill, and dangerous driving.

After attempting to take the boy into custody, the officers were instructed to take him to a hospital, where he was diagnosed with a fractured knee. Since January, three police constables are facing criminal investigation—one is being probed for possible assault causing grievous or actual bodily harm, while the other two are being examined for allegedly encouraging or assisting an offence under the Serious Crime Act 2007. These three officers are also subject to potential gross misconduct proceedings. In addition, another three constables are being investigated for possible misconduct related to failures to challenge the actions of their colleagues or to properly manage the boy’s treatment.

Detective Superintendent Marco Bardetti acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations and expressed the importance of a thorough and independent inquiry, stating: “These are serious allegations which will be concerning to the public. It is important an independent and thorough investigation be carried out to ensure all of the circumstances can be fully examined.” Bardetti also emphasized the police’s commitment to transparency and community reassurance throughout the investigation process.

Amanda Rowe, director of the IOPC, highlighted the significance of proportionate use of stop and search powers. She said: “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.” The IOPC confirmed it has engaged with the boy’s family and gathered additional evidence, including reviewing officers’ body-worn camera footage, medical documents, and statements from those involved. The officers implicated are due to be interviewed under caution, while further witness accounts continue to be collected to support the investigation

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