A chaotic brawl at Manchester Airport involving two brothers and police officers sparked nationwide protests and multiple investigations.
According to The US Sun, Mohammed Fahir Amaaz, 20, and Muhammad Amaad, 25, have been charged with multiple offenses, including assault, while two police officers involved in the incident have been cleared of any charges.
The incident unfolded on July 23 when an altercation broke out between passengers from a Qatar Airways flight at Manchester Airport's Terminal 2. Video footage of the incident showed a police officer allegedly kicking and stamping on Amaaz's head during the arrest, leading to widespread public outrage and demonstrations across Rochdale and Manchester.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) launched an investigation following the viral spread of the footage. A Greater Manchester Police constable was initially suspended and placed under criminal investigation for assault.
The watchdog later expanded its probe to include a second officer following allegations of another incident during subsequent arrests.
The incident triggered significant protests, with approximately 200 people gathering outside Rochdale police station. The demonstrations later spread to Manchester city center, where protesters blocked roads and tram lines, with some individuals reportedly throwing eggs at the police station.
Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham intervened in the situation, describing the incident as "fast-moving and complicated" with "issues for both sides" after reviewing the complete footage. Rochdale MP Paul Waugh also became involved, speaking with the affected family and calling for calm.
Frank Ferguson, Head of the CPS Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, stated:
Following our review of an incident at Manchester Airport in July 2024, the Crown Prosecution Service has today issued charges against two individuals. This was a high-profile incident that attracted significant public interest and media coverage at the time, and we have worked closely from the outset with investigators from the Independent Office for Police Conduct and Greater Manchester Police.
Chief Constable Stephen Watson announced the reinstatement of the suspended officer following the CPS decision. The IOPC's misconduct investigation continues, with the force pledging full cooperation while maintaining support for their officers.
The case has drawn attention to police use of force and accountability. The CPS reviewed expert evidence and police training protocols before concluding there was no realistic prospect of conviction for the officers involved.
The brothers face serious charges, with Amaaz accused of two counts of causing actual bodily harm, assaulting an emergency worker, and common assault. His brother Amaad faces one charge of causing actual bodily harm.
The siblings are scheduled to appear at Liverpool Magistrates' Court on January 16. The IOPC continues its misconduct investigation, working alongside Greater Manchester Police to ensure a thorough examination of the incident.
The case remains under close public scrutiny, with Chief Constable Watson emphasizing the importance of allowing court proceedings to progress without prejudice or speculation. The incident has highlighted the complex relationship between law enforcement and community relations in Greater Manchester.
