The Greater Manchester Police force faces severe criticism and an official watchdog investigation after failing to protect a Jewish BBC journalist who received death threats while reporting in Manchester city centre.
Shabana Mahmood, Labour's shadow justice secretary, has demanded immediate answers from police chiefs after the disturbing incident that saw a BBC News reporter targeted with antisemitic abuse and death threats.
Police Security Breakdown
According to official reports, the journalist was conducting a live broadcast in Manchester when she became the target of vicious threats. Despite the presence of police officers at the scene, no immediate action was taken to ensure her safety or apprehend the perpetrator.
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police acknowledged the security failure, stating: "We are aware of an incident where a BBC journalist was subjected to threatening behaviour while undertaking filming duties in Manchester city centre."
Watchdog Investigation Launched
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has confirmed it is now investigating Greater Manchester Police's handling of the incident. The police watchdog will examine whether officers followed proper protocols and whether the force's response was adequate given the nature of the threats.
Community leaders have expressed outrage at the security lapse, particularly given the rising antisemitic incidents across the UK. The Jewish community in Manchester has voiced concerns about their safety and the police's ability to protect vulnerable groups.
Political Fallout
Shadow Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmouth has written to police commissioners demanding a full explanation of the security failure. "When journalists are threatened just for doing their job, and when those threats appear to be motivated by religious hatred, it demands the most serious response from our police forces," she stated.
The incident has raised serious questions about police preparedness for protecting public figures and journalists, especially those from minority communities who may be targeted for their identity.
Greater Manchester Police has promised full cooperation with the IOPC investigation and is conducting its own internal review of procedures for protecting journalists and public figures during outdoor broadcasts.
