IPCC probe into missing man case

The force's actions following the missing person report are to be examined

A police watchdog is to investigate Dyfed-Powys Police's response following concerns raised about the welfare of a missing man.

Michael Brown, 49. from Cardigan, Ceredigion, was reported missing at about 1715 BST on 21 August

After a search, his body was discovered two days later at nearby St Dogmaels.

It is the sixth time in just over a month the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) has been called in to look at police handling of deaths.

IPCC Commissioner for Wales Tom Davies said: "Mr Brown's death must have come as a shock to his family and friends and I would like to extend my condolences to them.

"The IPCC will manage an investigation by Dyfed-Powys Police professional standards department into the police actions following the initial call to the police force.

"The investigation will be under the direction and control of the IPCC and will look at whether the police responses were proportionate and within force policy and training.

"I have also asked that the investigation emphasises any lessons to be learned, if appropriate."

Last week Mr Davies said he wanted to ensure reports of emergency calls and domestic violence to the police are handled properly

At that stage the IPCC had been asked to look at the police handling of five deaths in Wales in just a month.