Guernsey Police have issued a statement in response to a video circulating on social media showing a man being arrested earlier this week.

A spokesperson for the force said the 32-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession of controlled drugs, the intent to supply, and resisting arrest, during an incident on the Rohais on Tuesday 16 September.

They said the man was detained after he had tried to run away when he was approached in connection with another inquiry.

“Officers were actively searching for a man involved in another serious investigation, and when they approached the 32-year-old as part of their enquiries, he fled. Officers pursued and detained him. He was subsequently arrested after suspected controlled drugs were identified, along with associated paraphernalia,” the spokesperson said.

The man was injured as a result of the arrest, including allegedly suffering a broken nose.

However, Guernsey Police said when he was initially assessed by paramedics they decided that he didn’t need hospital treatment.

“Officers called an ambulance to check the suspect for injuries, and he was cleared to be taken into custody,” the spokesperson said.

“In custody, officers instigated another health check from a custody healthcare professional. He was referred to hospital, checked at the Emergency Department, and returned shortly after.”

The Guernsey Police spokesperson said after he was treated at the hospital, and had returned to police custody, the man was released on bail to allow for further enquiries.

The spokesperson also confirmed a complaint has been made against the officers involved in the arrest.

“These enquiries are ongoing, and our Professional Standards Department has received a complaint from a member of the public following the posting of a video on social media, which only shows a short part of the incident.

“As ever, Guernsey Police expects all our officers and staff to meet the highest standards of policing. 

“Policing is a difficult and often dangerous job, requiring dynamic decision making. We appreciate the support of the of our community when undertaking this challenging role and would request the investigations are allowed to continue without further speculation.     

“If you have any information which may assist the investigation into the complaint or the criminal enquiry, please contact officers on 01481 222 222.”