Hundreds of protesters gathered outside Rochdale Police Station after footage of an officer kicking and stamping on a man’s head was shared widely on social media.
Greater Manchester Police said it understands the “immense feeling of concern and worry that people feel” after the footage from Manchester Airport emerged.
The force added the demonstration on Wednesday night ended “without incident”.
Sky News understands the people seen being arrested in the video come from the Rochdale area and a large crowd came together just after 10pm to show solidarity for the men.
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Assistant Chief Constable (ACC) Wasim Chaudhry of Greater Manchester Police said an officer “has been removed from operational duties” in relation to the footage.
The video, said to have been filmed at terminal two of the airport on Tuesday, shows an officer with a Taser in his hand appearing to kick and then stamp on the head of a man who is lying face down on the floor, with a woman kneeling beside him.
A second man also appears to be struck by the officer.
On Thursday morning, ACC Chaudhry added: “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 (IOPC) 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.”
Source Agencies
