BC’s Independent Investigations Office (IIO BC) is investigating after a man was bitten by a police dog during an incident in the 70 Mile House area.

Clinton RCMP say the man, who was arrested, needed surgery after he was bitten on Sunday afternoon.

In a statement, police spokesperson Staff Sgt. Janelle Shoihet says RCMP responded after being told of three people in a pickup truck who were possibly impaired and ‘acting suspiciously’ at the time.

“A responding officer located and attempted to conduct a traffic stop with the pick-up truck at which point the driver allegedly failed to stop,” she said, noting the pair were later located near Watch Lake, about 30 km away.

“Additional officers, including a police service dog were called to assist,” Shoihet added.

“A woman and man arrested outside a nearby residence. The man was injured as a result of contact made by the police dog and has since been treated in hospital for injuries sustained. A second woman was arrested attempting to leave the area.”

The IIO will now determine what role police actions may have had that led to the man’s injury.