Eight Greater Manchester Police officers suspended over racism allegations

Eight Greater Manchester Police officers have been suspended following a report of alleged racial discrimination.

GMP said on Monday that it had also placed an officer on restricted duties and referred the matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

The suspensions are unrelated to the incident at Manchester Airport, in which a GMP officer was suspended after a video circulated online of a man allegedly being kicked and stamped on the head.

Seven of the suspended officers are from the Bury district, one is from Rochdale and was working in Bury at the time of the allegations.

Police said they had temporarily deployed officers to Bury to cover operational duties there and minimise disruption in the district.

GMP’s Head of Professional Standards, Detective Chief Superintendent Mike Allen, said: “The reports we have received are deeply concerning and I hope to reassure the community of Bury, the wider public and the workforce at GMP that these matters will be fully and thoroughly investigated.”

Previously, on 17 July, GMP suspended five officers and placed two on restricted duty – all from the Bury district.

On 4 July, GMP also submitted a mandatory referral to the IOPC in the case and the following day the police inspectorate began its investigation.

The IOPC said the referral concerned allegations that officials had “engaged in frank conversations and either used abusive language or failed to take action against it”.

Catherine Bates, IOPC Regional Director, said: “Officers are expected to demonstrate exemplary behaviour and remain professional.

“Such behavior can damage public confidence in police work and also has a negative impact on officers who behave with integrity.”

“We will conduct a thorough investigation to secure the evidence and ensure that any discriminatory behavior is appropriately punished.

“This does not necessarily mean that a Code of Conduct violation or criminal charge will follow, and the status of all officers will be reviewed throughout the investigation.”

Published: 29.07.2024 by Radio NewsHub