A protest is taking place in Manchester after a video which appeared to show a man being kicked as he lay face down on the floor. The demonstration has been organised by Stand Up To Racism. People have gathered outside the offices of Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) Mayor Andy Burnham on Oxford Street in the City of Manchester.
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Stand Up To Racism says “There is no possible justification whatsoever for this vicious attack. When we gather tonight it is to demand the immediate suspension of all the GMP officers involved." The Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officer was suspended on Thursday after the video was shared widely on social media and prompted protesters to gather outside Rochdale police station late on Wednesday night.
(Image: PA/James Speakman) Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham, who met with Home Secretary Yvette Cooper to discuss the incident on Thursday, asked for calm, saying the “right and proper steps” had been taken. The footage, filmed at Manchester Airport’s terminal two on Tuesday, appeared to show an officer kick and stamp on the head of a man who was lying face down on the floor, with a woman kneeling beside him. (Image: PA/James Speakman) The video also appeared to show the officer strike a second man.
Police said three of their officers had been assaulted, including a female Police Constable who suffered a broken nose, and four men were arrested. (Image: PA James) Speaking on BBC Radio Manch.