In the wake of a troubling incident at Manchester Airport that was captured on video, the family of a man who was kicked in the head by a police officer has expressed concern for any officers injured during the altercation. The incident occurred around 8.30pm on Tuesday and has since sparked significant public and legal reactions.
Footage of the event, which quickly spread online, shows a Greater Manchester Police firearms officer striking Muhammad Fahir Amaaz twice while he was down. Further footage, released by the Manchester Evening News, depicts the events leading up to the altercation, including a scuffle between two men and police officers.
During the incident, two officers were reportedly punched to the ground, prompting police to use Tasers to subdue the suspects. The melee has led to widespread scrutiny of police actions, with Greater Manchester’s Mayor Andy Burnham urging the public to reserve judgment until the full context is understood. However, in response to Burnham’s statement, a family representative emphasized that “there is no context justifying an assault when someone is on the ground.
The two men involved, Muhammad Fahir Amaaz and Amaad Amaaz, were part of the initial altercation. Their former solicitor, Akhmed Yakoob, claimed that a CT scan revealed a cyst on Muhammad Amaaz’s brain after he was kicked by an officer. The family has since appointed a new lawyer, citing the need for a change in representation following controversial statements by Yakoob.
The new family representative noted that Mr. Amaaz was “traumatised” and slated for further medical scans. They also expressed “real concern for any police officer injured” during the incident, highlighting their empathy despite the circumstances.
The footage has led to protests outside Rochdale police station and in Manchester city centre, reflecting community unrest over the incident. In response, Greater Manchester Police have suspended the officer involved, and the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has announced a robust investigation into the matter.
