Family of Arrest Victim Urges Calm Amid Controversy at Manchester Airport

The family of a man involved in a violent arrest at Manchester Airport has requested an end to planned protests, according to local MP Mr. Waugh. In a statement shared on social media, the family expressed a desire for "calm and healing," urging the community to refrain from attending demonstrations scheduled for the weekend. Mr. Waugh emphasized the community's commitment to the rule of law and the importance of ensuring that justice is served fairly and equitably. The incident, which occurred in Terminal 2, involved three officers who were reportedly assaulted while attempting to detain a man following an altercation among passengers. The Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that all three officers required hospital treatment, highlighting the potential danger posed by the presence of firearms during the confrontation. Mr. Yakoob, representing the arrested individuals, noted that their family, which includes a serving GMP officer, has been left traumatized by the events. Chief Constable Stephen Watson expressed regret over the distress caused by the incident and confirmed that GMP would cooperate with the Independent Office for Police Conduct, which is investigating the use of force during the arrest. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham acknowledged the complexity of the situation, stating that the footage reveals a "fast-moving" scenario that is not straightforward. Witness accounts describe a chaotic scene, with one observer detailing how officers attempted to subdue the man, leading to a physical altercation that escalated until the man was Tasered and subsequently kicked by an officer.