Greater Manchester Police: Respect Amidst Controversy and Change

From the dramatic scenes at Manchester Airport to the scrutiny surrounding the handling of a younger suspect, the Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have faced numerous challenges and controversies in recent times. This article delves into the complex dynamics within the force, the public's evolving opinions, and the significance of respect in law enforcement.

Amour and Armament: A Controversial Scene

The incident at Manchester Airport stands out as particularly troubling. Specifically, the use of armed police and unarmed civilians, akin to a 'little old lady,' against suspects armed with knives is a stark contrast to the often portrayed image of the police force. While the middle-aged woman lay compliant on a bench, a young suspect was reportedly involved. The GMP’s action at the airport raises questions about the appropriateness of their methods and the training and guidance police receive.

Some observers note the disparity in policing tactics, invoking an old sketch from the Two Ronnies, where prisoners agreed to 'throw themselves downstairs' due to undermanned police forces. This highlights the potential for police over-reaction and the need for better resource allocation. Similarly, a previous case involving Sian O’Callaghan's vigil, where the police were criticized for being overly heavy-handed, indicates that they haven't fully learned from past controversies.

Respect for the GMP

However, there is a significant body of public opinion that holds the police in high regard due to the challenging scenarios they face. One commenter underscores this with the sentiment: 'I do. Have you seen what those officers are up against? If you did, you wouldn't be asking. How they hold back is beyond me, but they're professionals and extremely good at what they do. I have the utmost respect for police officers.'

As more detailed videos surfaced, public opinion shifted, with many now concluding that the police acted appropriately. The general sentiment now supports the GMP’s actions in this instance.

Reflection and Lessons Learned

After viewing the entire event, a commenter expressed their frustration and support for the police: 'Now that I have seen the entire event, I would have done the same to the fuckers.'

However, the case also brings to light the challenges faced by the senior management and how they handle such incidents. One commenter highlights the importance of accountability: 'Well, I would say me, but my respect goes out to the police involved in the incident. NOT their spineless senior management who immediately went into appeasement mode.'

The retroactive respect for the police, coupled with negative sentiments towards senior management, underscores the need for transparency and accountability within the force.

Lastly, it's crucial to recognize the significant efforts of the GMP. With over 8,500 constables, the force plays an invaluable role in protecting the community. Despite the presence of both good and bad elements, the overall respect for the GMP remains high.

Nevertheless, there are valid concerns about the conduct of some officers, particularly at Manchester Airport. The ease with which the group was overcome, the lack of escalation measures, and the justifiability of a head kick are points of contention. However, these specifics do not reflect the broader force's commitment to their duties. The capacity to adapt and learn from each incident is crucial for the GMP to maintain the public's trust.