Protesters have been gathering outside Rochdale Police Headquarters chanting ‘GMP, shame on you’ and demanding justice after a video showed police officers assaulting a Pakistani family at Manchester airport.
The protesters were demanding the release of the “innocent brothers held by the police” following the incident
Assistant Chief Constable Wasim Chaudhry has issued a further statement this evening:
“A protest held last night outside Rochdale Police Station about our response at Manchester Airport has concluded safely, without incident. We understand the immense feeling of concern and worry that people feel about our response and fully respect their right to demonstrate their views peacefully.
“We have already referred our actions to the Independent Office for Police Conduct and will be in further discussions with them today.
“We have spent the evening listening to community feedback and will continue to engage with communities and elected members to maintain strong partnership links and understand local views.”
Earlier Rochdale MP Paul Waugh issued the following statement on X
“The video footage of a Greater Manchester police officer kicking and stamping on a man in Manchester Airport is truly shocking and disturbing.
Like many who have seen this clip, I am extremely concerned. I have had it confirmed that the man arrested is a Rochdale resident and I hope to meet the family as soon as possible.
I have expressed my concerns directly to the Assistant Chief Constable this evening and have been in touch with Kate Green, Deputy Mayor for policing of Greater Manchester.
It’s right that the police officer concerned has been removed from duties and that this incident has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct. I expect a thorough and swift investigation.”
