A troubling video has emerged showing police officers apparently using excessive force during an arrest at Manchester Airport.
The footage, filmed by a bystander, shows a man being pinned to the ground by three officers as they try to restrain him.
The incident reportedly took place at one of the airport’s bus terminals around 1 pm on Sunday, December 29, 2024.
Alleged Punches and Kicks During Arrest
In the video, one officer is seen repeatedly punching the man, with reports suggesting he struck him four times in the stomach.
Additionally, the officer appears to kick the man twice while two other officers hold him down.
These officers can also be seen landing some blows as they work to secure the man in handcuffs.
Throughout the footage, the man struggles to break free, but the officers continue to apply pressure.
Witnesses Express Concern Over the Incident
A holidaymaker, who was traveling from Norway, captured the disturbing scenes on his phone while sitting on a coach from Liverpool to Manchester.
The video has sparked widespread concern regarding the level of force used by the officers during the arrest of the man, who was allegedly drunk and disorderly at the time.
He had reportedly been denied entry onto a bus and had caused a disturbance, prompting police to intervene.
Investigation Underway by Greater Manchester Police
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have acknowledged the public’s concern regarding the use of force shown in the footage.
A spokesperson confirmed that the incident is being reviewed by the force’s Professional Standards Unit, which is examining both the video evidence and the officers’ body camera footage as well as CCTV from the airport.
GMP has yet to release further details about the officers’ actions or whether any disciplinary actions will be taken.
History of Similar Incidents at Manchester Airport
This incident comes just five months after another video surfaced showing a GMP officer kicking a man in the face during a separate altercation at Manchester Airport.
Following the release of that video, one officer stood down from active duty, and two men were instructed to appear in court regarding the incident.
However, no charges were filed against the officers involved in that case.
Ongoing Review of Arrest and Use of Force
In response to the latest footage, GMP emphasized that it is fully aware of the concerns raised and is conducting a thorough review of all available materials, including the body-worn cameras of the officers involved.
While the man in the video was arrested on suspicion of being drunk and disorderly, his identity and the specific circumstances of his arrest have not been fully disclosed.
The investigation into the use of force continues, with authorities looking into whether the officers acted appropriately during the arrest.