Travellers demand watchdog investigate 'racism' at Greater Manchester Police
Traveller and gypsy communities have asked the police watchdog to investigate what they call 'institutional racism' at Greater Manchester Police'.
Traveller Movement accuses the force of being too heavy handed when officers removed Romani, Gypsy, Roma and Irish traveller children during a dispersal order in November 2024 at the city centre Christmas Markets.
It says, "Video footage circulated online showed distressed children being forced through Manchester Victoria train station after being met by a large number of GMP officers. Children were seen being forced on to trains heading to unknown destinations, separated from family members, and subjected to physical aggression, including shoving, hair-pulling, and handcuffing."
The charity says the dispersal order exceeded police powers and was disproportionate. It says officers unlawfully targeted and removed children from the community, and disparaging terms like 'pikeys' were used.
It wants the Independent Office for Police Conduct to investigate and is demanding an inquiry an apology from Greater Manchester Police as well as better training for officers.
GMP said the force's priority was "always to protect public safety by preventing incidents of violence and disorder".
Police put in place a 48-hour dispersal notice from about 12:15 GMT on Saturday after reports of anti-social behaviour on trains and in the city.
Assistant Chief Constable Rick Jackson said: 'Any use of police powers is not taken lightly and they are used with a great deal of consideration. Our ultimate aim is always to prevent crime and protect the public.
"I have met with representatives of the Romani Gypsy, Roma and Irish Traveller community and we now have a GRT representative on our Independent Advisory Group so their views can be represented.
'During the meeting, we expressed our regret at the distress and upset the events of 23 November caused.
'We continue to reflect and review how we police similar situations in the future and are working with all relevant partners to ensure we are providing the best possible service to all those who live, work and visit our city.
'We are already planning for how we police the Christmas markets later this year where we can ensure all who plan to come to Manchester safely can do so, especially families and young people."
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