Official statements or press releases from Greater Manchester Police

Manchester Police Officer Under Criminal Investigation for Kicking Man at Airport

Jul 26, 2024, 02:33 PM

A Greater Manchester Police officer is under criminal investigation following the release of footage showing him kicking and stamping on a man's head during an arrest at Manchester Airport on Tuesday. The incident, which has sparked accusations of Islamophobia and racism, led to the officer's suspension and a referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) for a full investigation. The video also shows the officer using pepper spray on another man who was filming the incident. The altercation reportedly began after a man rammed an elderly woman with a luggage trolley, leading to a violent confrontation. The incident has caused outrage within the Muslim community and has been condemned by British MP Adnan Hussain as a 'complete abuse of power.' Newly released CCTV footage reveals the chaotic moments preceding the viral clip, showing migrant men attacking police officers, resulting in injuries to three officers, including a broken nose for a female officer. The man kicked in the head was identified as a teenager.