The Police watchdog has found a dog handler was justified in kicking and punching a fleeing burglar in the head in Hastings last year

The handler recognised the burglar on the street - and knew he reportedly carried weapons.

During the following struggle, the suspect put the dog in a headlock and held it by the jaw.

The officer used a punch to the head to break his grip on the dog - then kicked him in the head when he thought he saw a knife.

The IPCA says the punches and kicks were justified in the extreme situation.

It says the man was given adequate care before he was taken to hospital.