Family Traumatised as Police Brutality Incident at Manchester Airport Sparks Outrage
ICARO Media Group
In a shocking incident at Manchester Airport, a police officer has been suspended after a video surfaced online showing him kicking and stamping on a man lying on the floor. The family of the victim, identified as Muhammad Fahir Amaaz, has been left traumatised by the incident, according to their solicitor Akhmed Yakoob. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening following a fight in Terminal 2.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has stated that the officer's actions were in response to being "violently attacked" along with his colleagues. The force further explained that there was a "clear risk" of their weapons being taken from them, which led to the use of force. Three officers, including one with a broken nose, were taken to the hospital following the altercation.
Four individuals, aged between 19 and 31, were arrested on suspicion of assault and affray but have since been released on bail. The disturbing footage of the incident has sparked public outrage, leading to protests outside Rochdale police station and in Manchester city centre. Demonstrators chanted "shame on you" as they demanded justice for the victims and an end to police brutality.
During a gathering outside Rochdale police station, Mr. Yakoob revealed that the medical condition of Muhammad Fahir Amaaz had worsened overnight, with a CT scan revealing a cyst on his brain. He also disclosed that the brothers involved in the incident are family members of a serving GMP officer.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation into the incident and received a second referral from GMP regarding the same officer's use of pepper spray on another individual at the airport. Catherine Bates, the IOPC regional director, assured the family of the first victim that a "robust investigation" would take place and that they would be kept updated throughout the process.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr. Yakoob denounced the incident as an example of brutality and expressed concern for their safety. He emphasized the importance of the family receiving justice and ensuring that such incidents do not occur in the future.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged the public's concern over the video footage and assured that due process would be followed following the suspension of the officer. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper echoed the concerns and stressed the need for a swift and thorough investigation by the police watchdog.
Meanwhile, the second protest took place in Manchester city centre, with demonstrators gathering outside Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham's offices before moving on to St Peter's Square. One protester expressed shock over the incident, prompting their participation in the demonstration against the police.
Mayor Burnham, after viewing the full footage, acknowledged the complexity of the situation and called for a thorough and measured investigation. He urged for calm, assuring the public that proper steps were being taken to address the incident.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the victims and preventing such instances of police brutality in the future.