A MAN died on Blackwood High Street after being handcuffed by police, according to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

Police were called to Blackwood High Street at 2.35pm on Monday, June 25 after concerns were raised over the man's welfare.

When they arrived, they handcuffed the 32-year-old man, who later became unresponsive.

An ambulance was called but the man was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.

A spokesman for the IOPC said: "We are appealing for any witnesses to events at Blackwood High St on Monday afternoon to contact the IOPC on 0800 029 4693 or email: dsiblackwood@policeconduct.gov.uk

"After being notified by Gwent Police, our investigators were deployed to the scene and to the police post-incident procedure, and our enquiries are continuing. CCTV footage from the High St has been recovered, and accounts are being gained from relevant police officers."

IOPC Director for Wales Catrin Evans added: “We have made contact with the man’s family and I send my sympathies to them and everyone else affected by his death.

"We have started our investigation into the circumstances including what contact police had with the man. We understand he was in the Sirhowy Wetherspoons pub on Blackwood High St that afternoon before police attended, and would be grateful for anyone who witnessed him there or outside to help with our investigation.”

The IOPC added there was no indication of a Taser or any other weapons being used by police.

A post mortem is due to take place today.