Three police officers have been suspended after a suspected shoplifter was allegedly assaulted in a Canterbury department store.

Footage has emerged of the officers restraining the man wearing a white hoodie in what appears to be a holding area.

It is believed to have been recorded from CCTV footage at a Canterbury department store.

The four-minute clip starts with the suspect being searched by two officers.

A third then appears and the trio are seen restraining him by grabbing him around the throat while pinning him to a wall.

One of the officers is then seen to raise his fist to the suspect, before speaking into his police radio.

Moments later, the same officer is seen to punch the suspect twice in the face - the second blow causing him to collapse onto the floor.

The officers then huddle over the suspect for about 50 seconds, before pulling him onto his feet and handcuffing him.

The clip ends with the suspect sitting down and the officers standing over him.

Scroll down for video

Kent Police said the incident was referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission in October, but it was decided the case was suitable for the force to investigate.

Spokesman Jon Green said: "Kent Police is investigating following an allegation of assault in Canterbury on July 11, 2013.

"Three police officers from east division were suspended from duty on Thursday 24 October pending the outcome of this inquiry."

Video: Officers restrain a suspected shoplifter in Canterbury

Stories you might have missed

Police hunt scarred sex attacker

Jailed man's wife hit his 'glass' victim

Delays as lorry rolls into M20 embankment

Missing teen found safe after six days