The independent body for investigating police conduct is calling for witnesses to come forward after a body was retrieved from the River Lea following a police chase.

It has yet to be officially confirmed the body is the male who was being chased by officers. Police say they are working towards formal identification.

The body was retrieved yesterday morning after a police chase the night before.

Officers patrolling on bicycles along the River Lea towpath between Ferry Lane and Markfield Park in Tottenham engaged in a chases with a group of males.

One of the males was detained however two other males made off from police on pushbikes and were pursued before they were 'seen to enter the water', the Met Police has said.

One of the males was retrieved from the water, which is part of the River Lee Navigation system, and detained by officers. Specialist search teams looked for the other male and a body was found the next morning.

IOPC investigators oversaw the process where the officers involved provided their accounts and declared an independent investigation.

IOPC Regional Director Sal Naseem said: “Our thoughts are with all of those affected by this tragic incident. It is important for all those affected that an independent investigation establishes all of the circumstances which led to this event. We have begun to gather evidence including initial accounts from the officers involved and their body worn video. But we would like to hear from anyone who was in Tottenham Hale around the river tow path, specifically at Tottenham lock 17 on Ferry Lane, N17 at around 9.15pm last night, and may have witnessed any police interaction with the males.

"If you saw or filmed any part of this incident, you can help us to build a picture of what happened by contacting our investigators on 0300 303 5721 or email riverlea@policeonduct.gov.uk"