A VIDEO showing a black man being Tasered by a police officer in front of a young child has heightened concerns over their use by forces.

The mobile footage, which went viral on social media on Thursday night, shows two Greater Manchester police officers attempting to apprehend a man at a petrol station in Stretford. 

One of the officers appears to Taser the man, who falls to the ground, and a small child is seen in distress and can be heard screaming “Daddy.”

Greater Manchester police said that it has reported itself to the police watchdog over the incident. 

The force identified the man as Desmond Ziggy Mombeyarara, 34, who has been charged with seven offences including drink driving and resisting arrest.

Superintendent Mark Kenny said: “We are aware of public concern regarding this arrest and I want to reassure the public that this matter is being reviewed and treated seriously.”

The video sparked anger on social media with users questioning whether the force used by police was necessary. 

Manchester City Mayor Andy Burnham has called for an urgent and independent investigation of the incident. 

Civil rights group Liberty said the video was “incredibly distressing” and “raises many questions.” 

Liberty’s Clare Collier told the Star: “Tasers put people’s lives at risk, which is why the mass roll-out of these weapons on our streets is dangerous and must be stopped.

“The growing use of Tasers will exacerbate the over-policing of minority and marginalised communities, particularly people of colour, as well as those experiencing mental-health issues.”