A police firearms officer has been suspended from armed duties after “accidentally” shooting a man in the arm.

The incident happened as three Met police officers taking part in an intelligence operation in Notting Hill, on Saturday afternoon, approached two men on Ledbury Road.

Although it is not clear whether there was any discussion between the two parties, one of the officers fired his weapon, injuring a 44-year-old man.

He was taken to St Mary's Hospital, Paddington, where his injuries were described as 'not life threatening'.

Met police said in a statement today that the officer had been suspended from firearms duties, 'as is usual', while the investigation occurs.

The statement said: "Early indications are that the officer may have accidentally discharged his firearm but a full investigation will be carried out to establish if this is the case, and if so, how exactly this happened."

Nicola Williams, a member of the Police Complaints Authority said: "I will ensure that a full and impartial investigation is conducted into this matter."