The police watchdog has launched an investigation into the death of a 30-year-old man after his arrest by the Met Police in Croydon.
The 30-year-old died in hospital shortly after 11pm on July 15, after being arrested in Croydon town centre at 2.15pm.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said that while in custody at Croydon Custody Centre, the man became unwell.
He was given first aid and an ambulance was requested, the IOPC said. CPR was provided and he was taken to a south London hospital where was later pronounced dead.
A post-mortem was completed on Wednesday, with the IOPC saying it was awaiting further results. The man’s identity has not been released.
The watchdog is reviewing CCTV from the custody centre and obtaining accounts from the custody staff involved as part of its probe.
IOPC director Steve Noonan said: “Our thoughts are with the man’s family and friends. We have been in contact with family members and close friends in the UK and we understand the man has immediate family overseas.
“We will also be contacting them to explain our role and will keep them updated throughout the investigation.
“Given the man has fallen unwell while in police custody and died, it’s important that an independent investigation is carried out to establish all of the circumstances surrounding this incident, including the actions and decision-making of the MPS custody staff present.”
A Met Police spokesperson said the man was arrested on recall to prison and suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs.
Scotland Yard said the man was seen by a “health care practitioner” while in custody, and was taken to hospital by paramedics when he “became unwell”.
“The Met's Directorate of Professional Standards was informed and the incident has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, who are independently investigating,” said the spokesman.
