ESSEX police has referred itself to the standards watchdog and an officer has been placed on reduced duties after footage of an arrest was posted online.

A video allegedly showing an officer punch a man and kneel on his neck or head has sparked anger among residents.

Police bosses have insisted officers work to high standards and the alleged incident is being investigated.

An officer was allegedly attacked while making the arrest.

A force spokesman said: “We are aware of a video circulating on social media. “Officers received calls from members of the public following a collision in Grosvenor Road, Westcliff at around 5.40pm.

Echo:

Arrest - the man speaking with officers

“During the incident an officer reported being assaulted. “During his period of detention the arrested man was taken to hospital, during which time he was further arrested on suspicion of public order offences.

He was later discharged and returned to police custody where he was interviewed. “He has been released under investigation.

“We voluntarily referred the matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct this morning.

READ MORE >>

"An officer has been placed on restricted duties whilst the investigation takes place which is standard procedure in these circumstances.

“Essex Police has rigorous over sight of the use of force by officers to ensure it is used appropriately and so we can continue to learn and improve.”

Police said the investigation process will allow the force to scrutinise each incident. The force was previously rated as ‘good’ at treating the public with fairness and respect by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services.

Officers were called to a crash and a 32 year-old man was arrested on suspicion of a offences including: drink driving; driving while disqualified; driving without insurance; possession of a Class B drug; using threatening or abusive words or behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress and assaulting an emergency worker.