Protester Dies in Police Custody After Wigan Hotel Arrest – Family Blames Force
Tragic Death After Peaceful Rally
A 26-year-old man died in police custody following his arrest at a protest outside the Britannia Hotel in Wigan. Ellis Rocks, a passionate and peaceful campaigner, was detained during a demonstration opposing the use of hotels for asylum seeker accommodation on Thursday night.
manchester-police/" title="Greater Manchester Police" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed Ellis was arrested for alleged public order offences. Hours later, he was found unconscious in his cell during routine checks.
Family Blames Police for Negligence
Despite being rushed to hospital, Ellis remained in critical condition for over two days before passing away early Saturday morning, with his family by his side.
“We are broken. No other family should go through this. Ellis was exercising his democratic right to protest peacefully. He should have come home to us.”
Ellis’s family accused GMP of negligence and called his death “avoidable.” Two police officers have now been served misconduct papers.
IOPC Launches Independent Probe
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched a formal investigation. A GMP spokesperson said:
“We can confirm that a 26-year-old man was arrested in connection with a public order incident outside the Britannia Hotel on Thursday night. He was later found unresponsive in custody. We are cooperating fully with the IOPC investigation and extend our condolences to Mr. Rocks’ family during this incredibly difficult time.”
Campaigners are demanding urgent reviews of how police handle protests and custody procedures. The IOPC is asking anyone with footage or information to come forward as the probe is still in its early stages.
More Developments Expected
This tragic case is developing. Stay tuned for further updates as the investigation unfolds.
