A Greater Manchester Police officer in the United Kingdom, has been suspended following the release of a video showing the officer kicking a man in the head at Manchester Airport.
The incident, which occurred inside Terminal 2 of Manchester Airport, gained significant attention after the footage went viral on social media on Wednesday.
Initially, GMP announced that the officer had been “removed from operational duties” following the emergence of the video showing a suspect being kicked in the head during an arrest.
In an updated statement on Thursday, GMP confirmed the officer’s suspension from all duties and that a referral had been made to the police watchdog.
GMP stated on Thursday morning, “Following a thorough review of further information that has become available in relation to an incident at Manchester Airport on Tuesday evening, Greater Manchester Police has suspended a police officer from all duties.
“A referral has now been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct for a full independent investigation. We understand the deep concerns that have been widely raised with us, and will continue to meet and discuss these feelings with Greater Manchester residents and elected representatives, whilst this independent investigation takes place.”
Earlier reports from GMP indicated that officers were called to Terminal Two at 8:25pm on Tuesday evening in response to an “altercation” among members of the public.
The officers reportedly faced a ‘violent assault’ while attempting to make an arrest, resulting in the arrest of four men on suspicion of affray and assaulting emergency service workers.
According to police, a female officer sustained a broken nose, and other officers required hospital treatment. There was also a concern about the potential seizure of the armed officers’ firearms.
In reaction to the video, anger has surged within communities, especially in Rochdale, where those involved are believed to be from. Wednesday night, a large crowd assembled outside Rochdale police station in protest.
During the demonstration, some participants wore face coverings and chanted “‘GMP shame on you,” while others set off fireworks.
A witness estimated around 200 people attended the protest.
Police noted that the protest “concluded safely” and affirmed their respect for the public’s right to peacefully express their views.
Labour and Co-Operative MP for Rochdale, Paul Waugh, issued a statement early Thursday morning, indicating he had “spoken to the family involved and will now meet them in person.’ He confirmed that the arrested man in the video is a Rochdale resident and called for a ‘swift and thorough investigation.”
