Criminal Probe Launched Over Leaked CCTV at Manchester Airport
A major scandal has rocked Manchester Airport after CCTV footage showing a police officer allegedly kicking and stamping on a man went viral. The shocking clip, filmed during a July 23 brawl at Terminal Two, sparked public outrage and a criminal investigation.
IOPC Targets Source of Leaked Footage
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is now investigating how the footage, caught during an active police probe, leaked to the Manchester Evening News (M.E.N.). The paper posted the first video on July 24, followed by more footage on July 27 showing tense buildup to the clash. Protests erupted nationwide, with fierce criticism aimed at Greater Manchester Police (GMP) over their conduct.
The disturbing CCTV shows a male officer pointing a Taser at a man on the floor before kicking and stamping on his head. A female officer is also seen using a Taser on others at the scene. GMP claim officers were violently attacked while trying to make arrests.
M.E.N. Refuses to Reveal Whistleblower
Despite repeated IOPC demands on August 23 and September 3 for the CCTV and source info, the M.E.N. has stood firm. Editor Sarah Lester stressed, “The protection of sources of information is a key journalistic principle.” The refusal has only fanned tensions between the press watchdog and police regulators.
Two Officers Under Scrutiny, One Suspended
The IOPC confirmed on September 4 it is conducting a criminal investigation into whether GMP staff leaked the footage improperly, without policing justification. Two officers involved face criminal investigation, with one already suspended. Meanwhile, four men arrested over the affray remain on bail.
The watchdog insists the probe is in its early days, aiming to uncover the truth behind the leak and hold those responsible to account.
