Police staff assaulted after incident at airport

Two sergeants and a custody officer were assaulted following a suspected security breach at Manchester Airport, police have said.

They were attacked at a police station in Tameside while taking a man in his 20s into custody on New Year's Day. He had been detained on suspicion of assault and a breach of security.

Greater Manchester Police said the police officers and staff suffered injuries including a fracture, bite marks, scratches and an injured wrist.

They were taken to hospital but have since been discharged.

The suspect remains in police custody for questioning.

Supt Helen Caldbeck said: "Assaults on officers and staff, particularly when they've been serving the public over Christmas and New Year, is simply not acceptable.

"Emergency workers are serving the public and trying to keep people safe during the festive season and should not have to go to hospital when they are doing their jobs. Thankfully, they are all recovering from their injuries.

"We will be progressing this case and want to send a clear message that we will not accept this behaviour."

UPDATE - 2 January 2026: Following further information supplied to the media by Greater Manchester Police, this article was updated to make clear that while the initial incident was at the airport, the assault of the officers took place at a custody suite in Tameside as they were processing the prisoner.

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