• SHOCKING scenes unfolded on EastEnders tonight as Avani Nandra-Hart faced a harrowing ordeal.

BBC viewers were left stunned as the teen was subjected to a controversial strip-search by police, sparking outrage and debate across the Square.

Teenager Avani (Aaliyah James) was left shattered in harrowing EastEnders scenes after brutal police strip-search.

When Avani, along with pals Amy Mitchell (Ellie Dadd) and Lily Slater (Lillia Turner), skipped school, they were caught by two female officers.

During the bust, dealer Marvin dropped a bag of pills at Avani’s feet, leading to her being accused of carrying drugs.

With her parents unreachable, Avani was forced to be accompanied by an alternative adult and informed she’d be strip-searched.

Initially dismissive, Avani quickly realised the gravity of the situation when the officers threatened to restrain her with handcuffs.

Shocked, she agreed to comply, but had no idea she’d have to undress completely, even removing her underwear.

In a further disturbing turn, the officers demanded Avani bend over naked, leaving her humiliated and terrified.

After finding no drugs, the officers made her sign a form, and her step-grandmother, Suki Panesar-Unwin (Balvinder Sopal), arrived to take her home.

Suki was furious, but Avani, still shaken, urged her not to make a complaint.

Back at the Square, a row erupted when Avani lashed out at her mum Priya (Sophie Khan Levy), who had no idea about the strip-search.

Priya, horrified when she learned the truth, stormed over to confront detective Jack Branning (Scott Maslen) demanding action, while Avani broke down in private.

The 15-year-old was left traumatised after the Square learned about her shocking encounter with the police.

A devastating performance by Aaliyah James brought the heart-wrenching story to life, leaving viewers wondering if the police will face consequences and how Avani will cope after such an ordeal.