Police probe after PCSO ‘caught removing posters of Israel kidnap …

A short video was shared on social media on Monday night showing an officer taking down posters on the border of Prestwich and Crumpsall, before he was questioned about his actions. More than three weeks ago on October 7, 1,400 people were killed by Hamas in Israel. More than 230 hostages were taken over the border to the Gaza Strip which is under Hamas control.

Thousands more people have now died in the conflict. Posters have been put on display across the region showing people who were kidnapped, including in Prestwich, where there is a large Jewish population. The video has caused outrage among the Jewish community on social media but Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has said that the actions of the officers was "contrary to guidance" that the force issued in relation to flyposting.

GMP Assistant Chief Constable Wasim Chaudhry said: "We know the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is causing great distress to members of Greater Manchester's Jewish community and our thoughts remain with them at this time. "The force has increased engagement with representatives, including the Community Security Trust, to ensure that they feel heard and understood by GMP and to ensure their safety within the city and our neighbourhoods. "We share concerns raised regarding the removal of posters in the North Manchester area and can confirm that an investigation is underway.

"The action taken last night (Monday), in response to complaints, is contrary to guidance that the force had already issued to staff in relation to flyposting. "We will continue to work with local authorities and the community to ensure posters can be displayed. We regret any offence caused."

Speaking to BBC Radio Manchester this morning, GMP Chief Constable Stephen Watson said the force's professional standards department is investigating. He said: "I am aware of it. I'm very concerned about it.

"My early understanding is that there were a series of complaints about the posters. "An officer has been deployed and the PCSO under instruction removed the posters. "So there's nothing malicious in the intent of the officer, there's nothing that's done off the officer's own bat.

"But I think reading between the lines this is where we've responded badly to a complaint and I think we've got it wrong and we have not operated in accordance with our instructions. "So we are just seeking to unpick it but as always there are occasions, frankly, where we get in wrong. "And if we've got it wrong on this occasion then we'll simply hold our hands up and move on."

A joint statement released by Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham and deputy mayor Kate Green said: "We have been in touch with Greater Manchester Police to express our strong concerns about a police community support officer removing posters of Israeli kidnap victims in North Manchester. "We understand this occurred in response to complaints but it is against GMP's own guidance and should not have happened. "We have been assured by GMP that they will reinforce guidance with staff and ensure posters can be lawfully displayed across our city region.

"This is clearly a difficult time for our communities in Greater Manchester and we fully appreciate that this incident has been hurtful to our Jewish community.

"We will continue to ensure our communities are protected and kept safe."