Seven police officers investigated for alleged racism

Greater Manchester Police said it was "deeply concerned" about the claims

Seven police officers are being investigated amid reports of alleged racial discrimination.

Five officers from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have been suspended and two have been placed on restricted duties after a "deeply concerning" report was made, the force said.

A statement from GMP said it had a "zero tolerance" approach to any discriminatory behaviour.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct said it had also begun an investigation after the force referred the matter, and would "ensure any discriminatory behaviour is dealt with appropriately".

'Undermine trust'

Further detail of the circumstances surrounding the alleged discrimination have not been disclosed.

A GMP representative said: "We’ve suspended five officers and put two officers on restricted duties in the Bury district following a report made of racial discrimination.

"GMP has a zero tolerance on discriminatory behaviour from any of our officers and staff.

“We are deeply concerned by the allegations and will not hesitate to take any action necessary."

IOPC regional director Catherine Bates said: "This type of behaviour has the potential to undermine the public’s confidence and trust in policing, in addition to the impact it has on officers who conduct themselves with integrity.

“We will conduct a thorough investigation to establish the evidence and ensure any discriminatory behaviour is dealt with appropriately."

Ms Bates added that did not necessarily mean misconduct proceedings or criminal charges would follow.