A protest outside Rochdale Police Station, sparked by a controversial video depicting a police officer kicking a man at Manchester Airport, concluded peacefully on Wednesday night, according to Greater Manchester Police (GMP).

The video, which quickly spread on social media, was captured at the airport’s Terminal 2. It shows a police officer, taser in hand, kicking and apparently stamping on the head of a man lying face down on the floor, beside a kneeling woman. The footage also captured another man being struck by the same officer.

Assistant Chief Constable Wasim Chaudhry of GMP addressed the incident on Thursday morning, stating, “We understand the immense feeling of concern and worry that people feel about our response and fully respect their right to demonstrate their views peacefully. The protest held last night about our response at Manchester Airport has concluded safely, without incident.”

Chaudhry confirmed that the officer involved has been removed from operational duties and that the force has voluntarily referred its actions to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) for further examination.

The protest, which highlighted community dismay over police conduct, involved close communication with local community leaders and elected officials to ensure it remained peaceful and constructive. “We have spent the evening listening to community feedback and will continue to engage with communities and elected members,” Chaudhry added.

In response to the incident, GMP acknowledged the violent nature of the altercation that led to the controversial arrest, detailing that three officers were assaulted during the arrest attempt, resulting in injuries including a broken nose suffered by a female officer.

Home Office Minister Dame Diana Johnson and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham have both expressed concern over the incident and are closely monitoring the situation. Burnham noted, “I have raised these concerns with the deputy chief constable.”

The incident has ignited significant public and political discourse on police conduct and accountability, with ongoing assessments by GMP’s Professional Standards Directorate.