A West Midlands Police officer has been suspended following two complaints about his conduct.

The force referred both matters to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), who have launched an investigation.

The first complaint was received after a 15-year-old boy was stopped by the officer on 21 April in Melbourne Avenue, Newtown.

The IOPC said in a statement: "Footage of the incident has been shared on social media that shows a police officer involved in an altercation with the boy, who he is seen to strike and kick."

IOPC Regional Director Derrick Campbell added: ‘’We are aware that the footage circulated on social and other media has caused significant public concern. We have decided to carry out an independent investigation into the conduct of the officer following a voluntary referral made to us by West Midlands Police.

"We will be carefully examining the circumstances of the incident and the officer’s use of force. We have begun to gather information to determine what took place, and our investigators would like to speak to anyone who was present and witnessed the events.”

The IOPC understands the boy’s mother has made a formal complaint concerning the officer’s actions.

A second complaint was received on 30 April, relating to an incident on 20 April where two officers stopped a man they suspected was on a stolen bike.

The man was detained and it is alleged the officer assaulted him before he was released with no further action.

The IOPC said: “We are now aware of a second recent incident involving the same officer where it is alleged excessive force was used against another member of the public. After notification from West Midlands Police and concerns raised by community members today, we have requested a referral from the force with a view to us carrying out an independent investigation.”

The force has since made another referral to the IOPC and suspended the officer from duty.

The conduct of the second officer involved in the second incident is also being referred to the IOPC.