Nine officers face racism probe misconduct hearing

Nine police officers face a gross misconduct hearing following an internal investigation into alleged racial discrimination against a colleague, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has confirmed.

An inquiry was launched by the force's Professional Standards Directorate in July 2024 after a report was made that an officer in the Bury district had been subjected to racist remarks by some colleagues in December 2023.

GMP said it had suspended eight officers who remained off duty. A ninth officer has been restricted from working in Bury during the investigation.

A date for the hearing will be set as soon as possible, the force added.

Meanwhile a separate probe, by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), is examining an unrelated incident of alleged racial discrimination against an officer, also in the Bury district.

GMP said that investigation involved seven officers, of whom five remained suspended.

"The GMP and IOPC investigations relate to deeply concerning allegations into racist remarks about two officers in unrelated incidents," said GMP's head of professional standards, Det Ch Supt Mike Allen.

"We have conducted a thorough investigation and have fully supported the IOPC with their work, too.

"Ensuring we uphold the highest standards of professional behaviour across GMP is essential, and it is only right that when matters such as these are reported to us, we take all necessary action.

"We now await the outcomes of these ongoing proceedings."

GMP said it had worked extensively with officers, staff and the community in Bury to improve cultural awareness.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Manchester on Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.