Nine GMP officers face gross misconduct hearings over alleged racist remarks in Bury

Thursday, 8 May 2025 22:59

By David Murphy

Nine Greater Manchester Police officers have been found to have a case to answer for gross misconduct following an internal investigation into allegations of racial discrimination against a fellow officer in the Bury district.

The allegations stem from an incident in December 2023, when a report was made that a serving officer had been subjected to racist remarks by colleagues. In response, GMP’s Professional Standards Directorate launched an investigation in July 2024.

Eight of the officers identified remain suspended from duty, while a ninth has been removed from duties within Bury but not suspended. A misconduct hearing will be arranged at the earliest available date, GMP confirmed.

Detective Chief Superintendent Mike Allen, head of professional standards, said the force had investigated thoroughly and continues to cooperate with the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which is running a separate inquiry into an unrelated case involving seven different officers, five of whom are also suspended.

“These two cases involve disturbing allegations of racist behaviour in our ranks,” DCS Allen said. “We are determined to maintain the highest professional standards and will take all necessary action where those standards are not met.”

Chief Superintendent Kirsty Oliver, district commander for Bury, added that the force had maintained operational continuity despite the suspensions. “Since the allegations came to light, we have worked to ensure our service to the community remains unaffected. We continue to respond to emergency incidents and are achieving results in tackling crimes such as burglary and theft.”

Both the original complainant and another officer involved in the separate IOPC matter are receiving ongoing support, according to GMP. The force said it is working with internal teams and community representatives to strengthen cultural awareness and ensure that all officers uphold values of fairness and respect.

The misconduct proceedings will determine whether disciplinary sanctions are appropriate, which could include dismissal.

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