Third Avenue Leeds: Police confirm two men arrested and officers injured during disorder in Rothwell

Earlier today, the force confirmed it was investigating the incident, which happened in Third Avenue, Rothwell, on Sunday evening.

Footage widely circulated online shows an altercation between police officers and members of the public. One officer appears to deploy pepper spray during the incident.

In a more detailed statement released this evening, police have confirmed that two men were arrested and three officers received minor injuries.

A spokesperson for the force said: “Leeds District CID is continuing to investigate the incident which occurred after 5pm on Sunday October 22 on Third Avenue in Rothwell after a car was stopped by officers for a suspected traffic offence.

"A large crowd gathered round the vehicle as the officers were dealing with the driver and became involved in the incident. Other officers attended the area to support their colleagues and three officers received minor injuries in the disorder which followed.

“Two men were arrested at the scene on suspicion of offences including assaulting police officers, possession of controlled drugs and possession of a knife and offensive weapon. The two men arrested have since been released under investigation.

“A quantity of suspected Class A and B drugs a knife and an offensive weapon were also recovered.

"As is standard following any arrest where force is used, the Body Worn Video of the attending officers will be reviewed in conjunction with Social Media footage. Any breaches of the standards of professional behaviour identified will be assessed and dealt with in line with police conduct regulations.

"Anyone who can assist police enquiries is asked to contact Leeds District CID referencing police crime number 13230587319.”

The force also confirmed that a referral has been made to the force’s Professional Standards department, which assesses complaints made about the conduct of West Yorkshire Police officers and staff.