MANCHESTER: A video showing a police officer kicking and stamping on a man’s head at Manchester Airport has sparked widespread public outrage and protests, as reported by the BBC.
The incident occurred on Tuesday when firearms officers responded to a brawl in Terminal 2. In the widely circulated video, a uniformed officer is seen holding a taser over a man lying face down on the ground, before striking him twice. Other officers can be heard instructing bystanders to keep their distance.
Media reports say that the man subjected to the police assault is of British Pakistani descent.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has confirmed self-referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) and has suspended one officer from active duty.
The situation escalated when three officers were reportedly assaulted while trying to apprehend a suspect, resulting in one female officer sustaining a broken nose. Four individuals were arrested on suspicion of assault and affray.
Assistant Chief Constable Wasim Chaudhry acknowledged public concerns, emphasizing that the use of such force is uncommon. A demonstration outside Rochdale Police Station drew hundreds of protesters expressing anger over the incident and calling for an end to police brutality.
Mayor Andy Burnham and National Black Police Association President Andy George described the footage as disturbing and hard to watch. Home Office Minister Dame Diana Johnson has requested a comprehensive update from GMP.
The IOPC will review GMP’s self-referral to determine next steps. Meanwhile, GMP has committed to engaging with the community to address their grievances and uphold strong collaborative relationships.
