A Sky News investigation has uncovered alleged misconduct by Greater Manchester Police officers, revealing claims of unjustified and invasive strip searches and sexual assault.
In the exclusive report, Home Editor Jason Farrell hears testimony of three women’s harrowing experiences when being detained and speaks to former GMP chief superintendent Martin Harding to uncover claims of sexual and police misconduct at the hands of officers.
Farrell speaks to Zayna Iman, who alleges that she was drugged and sexually assaulted while being held in custody by Greater Manchester Police. When concerned by flashbacks from her 40-hours in custody, Zayna asked for the footage of her detention, along with custody logs, using a subject access request – which can be made to obtain personal information held by an organisation.
Sky News examined the logs and footage and found three significant gaps for which GMP failed to provide footage. Zayna’s allegation is supported by her medical records which show evidence of sexual injuries.
Former GMP chief superintendent, Martin Harding, who has seen the available footage and custody log, says Zayna’s claims are credible.
“I believe she was raped. I believe she was raped by an officer and I believe the organisation is covering it up,” he says.
Jason has spoken to two more women who claim they experienced unjustified, invasive strip searches by GMP and call for more accountability over how these things happen.
Jason Farrell, Home Editor for Sky News, said: “The stories and findings uncovered during this investigation – of alleged degradation, cover up and discrimination – are a worrying insight into how vulnerable women may be when detained by our police forces. It’s clear why these women are calling for more accountability for their experiences, at a time when there’s an ever-intensifying spotlight on police conduct in the UK.”
A spokesperson for GMP said: “Greater Manchester Police is committed to delivering outstanding service to all those the force comes in to contact with. If service is proven to have fallen below an acceptable level, the force apologises and takes the necessary action.
“GMP is aware that these three individuals are unhappy with the service they received when they were arrested and detained – their complaints have or are being investigated by the force. Though one investigation is ongoing, there is currently no evidence to suggest any GMP employees have misconducted themselves or committed a criminal offence.
“Under the definition within the Police and Criminal Evidence Act, two of these individuals were not strip searched. Due to concerns for their welfare, their clothing was removed and replaced with anti-rip garments – this process is subject to different legislation and guidance.”
