GMP officers suspended over alleged racial discrimination
Five officers are suspended and a further two are on restricted duties
Five Greater Manchester Police officers have been suspended following a report of racial discrimination.
Another two officers have been placed on restricted duties in Bury in connection with the alleged incident.
In a statement, Greater Manchester Police say:
“We’ve suspended five officers and put two officers on restricted duties on the Bury district following a report made of racial discrimination.
“GMP has a zero tolerance on discriminatory behaviour from any of our officers and staff.
“We are deeply concerned by the allegations and will not hesitate to take any action necessary.
"The IOPC who are independently investigating following our referral."
The Independent Office for Police Conduct says it has begun an investigation:
"We will investigate allegations that these officers openly engaged in conversations and either used, or failed to challenge, offensive language.
"We began an independent investigation on Thursday 4 July following a conduct referral from the force the day before. We are reviewing the available material and will notify the officers of their status in our investigation.
IOPC Regional Director Catherine Bates said:
“Officers are expected to maintain exemplary standards of conduct and professionalism. This type of behaviour has the potential to undermine the public’s confidence and trust in policing, in addition to the impact it has on officers who conduct themselves with integrity.'
“We will conduct a thorough investigation to establish the evidence and ensure any discriminatory behaviour is dealt with appropriately. This does not necessarily mean conduct proceedings or criminal charges will follow and the status of all officers will remain under review throughout the investigation.''