A 27-year-old man died at Manchester Airport after being detained by Border Force for drug offenses. Investigation underway.
Emergency services responded, but sadly, he died just before 2 PM, and an investigation is underway. The IOPC is investigating independently after the Home Office referred the case, noting the man acted strangely and planned to leave the country, according to an IOPC spokesperson.
Prior to his death, he was arrested for drug offenses. Specialist officers are supporting his family. The IOPC confirmed their investigation concerns the death of a 27-year-old man who was arrested at the airport by Border Force officers.
He was to travel from the airport when officers stopped him for unusual behavior. He was taken to a holding area and became suddenly unwell. Paramedics were called immediately, but he died at 1:53 PM.
The IOPC started an independent probe at 4:29 PM. IOPC investigators went to gather evidence, and Amanda Rowe, an IOPC Director, shared her sympathy to the man’s family. She stated a thorough investigation is essential when someone dies after being in custody.
The IOPC has informed the family about their role and will provide updates on the investigation’s progress, emphasizing it is just beginning. No more information is currently available.
Last month, brothers appeared in court, charged for a brawl at the airport that sparked protests nationwide. Footage from July 23 showed a fight where two officers were allegedly punched, and Mohammed Fahir Amaaz was kicked in the head while his brother, Muhammad Amaad, was restrained.
Both brothers face charges related to the airport chaos, however two police officers will not face charges. Amaaz, now 20, faces several charges, including assault and bodily harm, while Amaad, 25, is charged with bodily harm.
Both brothers, granted bail after appearing in court, are scheduled to appear again this month.
The video showing an officer kicking Amaaz’s head and using a Taser sparked protests across Rochdale and Manchester. More footage surfaced later, showing the lead up to the incident and two female officers on the floor. Four men were arrested on suspicion of affray and assault before being released on bail.