London’s Metropolitan Police are to investigate the events that led to the fatal shooting of two dogs in Limehouse last week. Police were called to reports of dangerous dogs attacking a woman, and dispatched firearms officers to the scene. Upon arriving, the officers confronted the dogs’ owner, who was restraining them on a short lead, before the conversation escalated and officers tasered the man and shot dead his dogs. The female victim suffered injuries to her leg but did not need hospital treatment.

Public pressure on the Met following the incident has been strong, with large crowds gathering to demonstrate outside New Scotland Yard headquarters in Westminster.

@good_vibes_af Justice for marshall and milions 😢😤#justiceformarshallandmillions #protest #dogprotest #limehouse #canalwalk #tragicstory #dogsoftiktok #fyp #viralvideo #justice @Dog In Black ♬ Devil Eyes – Hippie Sabotage

Owner of the dogs Louie Turnball was distressed by the actions of the Met, explaining in a Facebook Live that he was “struggling” with the aftermath of the shooting.

“I have had them since they were puppies and to have them taken away like that right in front of my face shot, and I am covered in the dogs’ blood, it was just so disgusting.”

For their part, the Met have acknowledged the public concern around this incident. Amanda Rowe, an IOPC regional director, said: “it is appropriate that it should be independently investigated.

“We will examine whether the actions of the officers involved were reasonable and proportionate in all of the circumstances and in line with relevant policy and procedure.”

Footage of the interaction between police, Turnball and the dogs from before the shooting has emerged, leading to increased public support and calls of police misconduct.

@princess_sheba_413 #duet with @Wally🧑‍🎄 #dog #marshallandmillions #dogsoftiktok #viral ♬ original sound – Wally🧑‍🎄

Despite the ongoing investigation into police conduct, Turnball is due in court on 6th June, on suspicion of being the owner of a dog that was dangerously out of control (with injury). More on this story as it develops.