The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an urgent inquiry after a woman alleged she was drugged and sexually assaulted while held by Greater Manchester Police.
The woman made the terrifying claims about her time detained at Pendleton Police Station back in February 2021.
IOPC confirmed it received two referrals from Greater Manchester Police on 26 July 2023. One referral related to complaints reported in May 2022, while the other exposed shocking new allegations that had previously never come to light.
Catherine Bates, IOPC regional director, stressed the seriousness of the claims, warning: “These very serious allegations will have undoubtedly unsettled the local community and the wider public. Their severity raises understandable concern and has the potential to undermine confidence in policing.”
Following a request from Greater Manchester Police and due to the intense media spotlight, the IOPC decided an independent investigation was essential. Bates reassured the public: “The investigation will be thorough and conducted independently of the police.”
Footage documenting the woman’s detention exists and will be crucial evidence examined during the probe.
The investigation aims to clarify exactly what happened during the woman’s custody and if any wrongdoing occurred. The IOPC’s commitment to transparency is key to restoring public faith in police conduct amid these grave allegations.
Originally published by UKNIP.
