British Officer Suspended After Viral Video of Airport Incident Sparks Outrage

A British police officer was suspended after a video showed the officer kicking and stamping on a man's head at Manchester Airport. The incident occurred during a fight at Terminal Two, with one officer suffering a broken nose. This has heightened public distrust in the police, following previous scandals.

A British police officer was suspended from all duties Thursday after a video posted on social media appeared to show an officer kicking and stamping on the head of a man lying on the floor at Manchester Airport.

Greater Manchester Police stated that the incident occurred while police were called to break up a fight at the airport's Terminal Two on Tuesday. Three officers were assaulted, with one suffering a broken nose, the statement said. "We understand the deep concerns that have been widely raised with us, and will continue to meet and discuss these feelings with Greater Manchester residents and elected representatives, whilst this independent investigation takes place," police added.

The incident came amid rising distrust of the police in Britain following allegations of excessive force used against ethnic minorities and scandals involving two officers who were arrested for rape and murder. A recent government-commissioned investigation found London's Metropolitan Police Service to be institutionally racist, homophobic, and misogynistic.

The Manchester officer's suspension followed protests outside a police station against police violence. The demonstration ended "without incident.'' Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he had seen the video and understood the public's concern. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham called for calm and met with Home Secretary Yvette Cooper. Burnham emphasized that the suspension was the correct action.

(With inputs from agencies.)