GMP chief constable has ‘deep regret’ for Manchester Airport video

Stephen Watson has issued a statement following a video of a police officer kicking a man in the head

Greater Manchester’s police chief says he has “deep regret” over a video which has emerged showing a police officer kicking a man in the head.

Video on Tuesday, which has gone viral on social media, shows an officer kicking and punching a man in the head as he lies face down on the floor at Manchester Airport.

Stephen Watson says he recognizes the incident has caused “shock and upset” in communities.

In the full statement, he said: “It is a source of deep regret that this week’s incident at Manchester Airport has caused shock and upset in some of our communities.

“Throughout this week, senior officers have been meeting with community representatives to ensure their voices are heard and this will continue – we are one with the best instincts of those calling for calm.

“While we are constrained to publicly release additional information or footage of the incident due to the conduct and criminal investigations, we are committed to providing the fullest practical assistance to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.”

A police officer has since been suspended by GMP and the Independent Office for Police Conduct, the police watchdog, says a criminal investigation is now underway.

It comes as Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham calls for “calm” following protests earlier this week.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Mr Burnham said he had met around 40 community partners in Rochdale.

He said: “What people here don’t want – and I heard it very clearly in the room this morning – is politicians without the facts to exploit the situation for their own political agenda without regard to the effect on the ground in communities . in Greater Manchester.

“I want to conclude by repeating the call for calm, especially this coming weekend.

“Things are moving forward, the right steps are being taken and people’s voices are being heard.

“It’s in everyone’s best interest to proceed with things in a measured and peaceful way from here.”

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