UK cop suspended for assaulting Pakistani nationals at Manchester Airport

A UK police officer has been suspended for kicking and beating Pakistani nationals at Manchester Airport, an incident that sparked outrage on social media and calls for action against the involved policemen.

“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,” Greater Manchester Police (GMP) spokesperson said. 

The altercation occurred on Wednesday, with videos showing police officers violently attacking several men at the airport and subsequently arresting them. 

The graphic display of violence against unarmed civilians led to protests in Manchester, where demonstrators gathered outside Rochdale Police Station, chanting "shame on you."

Multiple videos showed a cop tasing a young man, kicking and stomping on his head after he fell to the ground, and attempting to arrest him.  

In another video, a man was heard telling the officers, "We have not done anything, we are ordinary citizens." A youth in a red t-shirt repeated these words while women and children stood by with their belongings.

British Pakistani family brutally assaulted by the police at the Manchester Airport.

Warning ⛔️ Graphic Content. pic.twitter.com/F6BCXNsDsb

— Murtaza Ali Shah (@MurtazaViews) July 24, 2024

The police claimed that three officers were violently attacked and punched while trying to arrest a suspect. However, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham described the video as "disturbing" and acknowledged public concern. 

A police spokesperson stated that armed officers were called to the airport around 8:25am on Tuesday after reports of a fight. During the arrest, the officers were allegedly attacked and punched by the suspects. 

Since these police officers were armed, there was a clear risk of their weapons being taken from them, the spokesperson added. 

Three officers were hospitalised, one of whom suffered a broken nose.  

Police confirmed the arrest of two individuals on suspicion of assaulting policemen, beating an emergency worker, and obstructing police work. 

Two others were arrested on suspicion of fighting and assaulting an emergency worker.