The police watchdog has launched an investigation after an officer discharged pepper spray at a man in Edinburgh.

The Crown has instructed the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (PIRC) to conduct an inquiry following the incident earlier this year.

PIRC said PAVA incapacitant spray was used against a 22-year-old man in Edinburgh on January 11.

Police Scotland automatically refers itself to the body when a spray is used, as in all firearms cases, but the Crown Office also considered the case and ordered PIRC to investigate.

A PIRC spokesman said: "A report on the commissioner's findings will be submitted to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service in due course."

He was unable to provide more details of where the incident took place, pending the inquiry.

A police spokeswoman said: "We are aware that the PIRC is investigating an incident in Edinburgh on January 11 where PAVA spray was discharged by an officer, and whilst this investigation is ongoing it would be inappropriate to comment further."