WIREDGOV

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is appealing for witnesses following a non-fatal police shooting in Swindon on Tuesday 16 June.

Wiltshire Police were called to an alleged armed robbery shortly after 5pm in Rivermead Industrial Estate, Westlea. During the incident, a 59-year-old man was shot in the leg by a firearms officer. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening and he remains in hospital. Wiltshire Police report that one of the officers also received minor injuries during the incident.

After a mandatory referral from Wiltshire Police, we sent investigators to the scene and to the post incident procedures. We will be analysing police radio communication, body worn video footage and accounts from the officers involved, who are all currently being treated as witnesses.

Regional Director Derrick Campbell yesterday said:

“The use of firearms by police officers is rare but where potentially lethal force has been used, it is important that we carry out an independent investigation into the circumstances. I’d be grateful for anyone who saw events unfold on Tuesday to get in touch with our investigators.”

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or have any relevant CCTV footage is asked to contact us on 0800 096 9078 or by emailing WiltshireFirearmsIncident@policeconduct.gov.uk

A separate criminal investigation is being conducted by Wiltshire Police into the alleged armed robbery.