The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation into the use of force by a Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officer during an incident at Manchester Airport on July 23. The investigation comes after a video surfaced on social media showing the officer kicking and stamping on a man who was being arrested.
Officer Suspended and Footage Secured
The IOPC has confirmed that the officer involved has been suspended from all duties pending the outcome of the investigation. The agency has also secured a significant amount of body-worn video and CCTV footage, which will be subject to detailed analysis. The footage is expected to provide crucial evidence in the investigation and will be reviewed by the IOPC to determine whether the officer’s actions were justified.
Community Reaction and Calls for Calm
The incident has sparked widespread shock and concern, with many people expressing their outrage and disgust on social media. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has called for calm and urged people not to use the situation for “political purposes.”
“I would ask for calm because what I can assure people is that the right and proper steps have been taken in the right way,” Burnham said. “There is understandable feeling and anger in the communities when people see the incident, of course, I guess everyone understands that and there’s a reaction but when people seek to exploit that then I don’t think that is at all in the public interest, it’s not right.”
Rochdale MP Expresses Concerns
Rochdale MP Paul Waugh has expressed his concerns about the incident and is meeting with the family involved. He has also spoken out about the need for a thorough investigation and for the police to be held accountable.
“The video footage of a Greater Manchester Police officer kicking and stamping on a man in Manchester Airport is truly shocking and disturbing,” Waugh said. “Like many who have seen this clip, I am extremely concerned. I have had it confirmed that the man arrested is a Rochdale resident and I hope to meet the family as soon as possible.”
GMP Response and Investigation
GMP Assistant Chief Constable Wasim Chaudhry has acknowledged the concern and worry surrounding the incident and has referred the force’s actions to the IOPC. He has also spoken about the need for the police to be held accountable and for the community to be involved in the investigation.
“We understand the immense feeling of concern and worry that people feel about our response and fully respect their right to demonstrate their views peacefully,” Chaudhry said. “We have already referred our actions to the Independent Office for Police Conduct and will be in further discussions with them today. We have spent the evening listening to community feedback and will continue to engage with communities and elected members to maintain strong partnership links and understand local views.”
Incident Details
The incident occurred on July 23 at Manchester Airport, where police were responding to reports of an altercation between members of the public. According to eyewitnesses, a man in his early 20s was approached by police officers, who pinned him against a wall. A fight broke out, and the man was tasered and fell to the ground. The officer then kicked and stamped on the man.
Arrests and Injuries
Two men were arrested in connection with the incident, on suspicion of assault, affray, and obstructing police. Three officers were also injured during the incident, with one officer suffering a broken nose and the others requiring hospital treatment.
Home Office Response
Home Office minister Dame Diana Johnson has posted on social media, saying: “I am aware of disturbing footage from an incident at Manchester Airport this afternoon and understand the public concern it has prompted. I have asked for a full update from Greater Manchester Police.”
Community Engagement
GMP has pledged to engage with the community and listen to their concerns about the incident. The force has set up a dedicated email address for people to share their thoughts and feedback, and has promised to respond to all correspondence.
“We want to hear from the community and understand their concerns,” Chaudhry said. “We will continue to engage with communities and elected members to maintain strong partnership links and understand local views.”
Next Steps
The IOPC investigation is expected to take several weeks to complete, and the agency will provide regular updates on its progress. The force has also promised to provide a full report on the incident once the investigation is complete.
In the meantime, the community is being urged to remain calm and to allow the investigation to take its course. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of police accountability and transparency, and the need for the public to be kept informed about the actions of law enforcement agencies.
Conclusion
The incident at Manchester Airport is a stark reminder of the need for police accountability and transparency. The investigation into the use of force by the GMP officer is a crucial step in ensuring that the public’s trust is maintained and that the police are held to the highest standards of conduct. As the investigation continues, it is essential that the public is kept informed and that the police are held accountable for their actions.