'Quick-release' hijab for female police developed

A hijab featuring a magnetic "quick-release system" designed to help female Muslim police officers on patrol has been put into production.

The headwear has been created by researchers at De Montfort University (DMU) with Leicestershire Police, with the magnetic attachment allowing the lower section to detach instantly if pulled in a confrontation to prevent the "risk of strangulation while maintaining modesty".

Student officer PC Seher Nas says she feels "proud and empowered as a Muslim woman" when wearing the hijab as part of her police uniform.

As well as interest from forces around the country, DMU said it had been fielding inquiries from NHS trusts, paramedics and the private sector.

Det Sgt Yassin Desai, the founder of Leicestershire Police's Association of Muslim Police, said the design had taken three years to develop.

Det Sgt Desai said the new item - called the Blue Light Hijab - was tested on female officers during several trials, with the design being manufactured by DMU having worked out.

"The bottom part was able to detach and the officer was able to keep her dignity," he said.

"It's amazing to think after three years of research and development, we have got the design of this right, and we're taking it forward together."

Hijabs have been part of the uniform for a number of police forces for several years, with North Yorkshire Police introducing a two-piece design to protect officers in 2020.

An operational hijab introduced by New Zealand Police was also trialled in Leicestershire in a "country first" in 2021.

Student officer PC Nas said it was her "childhood dream" to become a police officer.

Although she has only been with Leicestershire Police for three weeks, the 23-year-old said she had "always known" about the operational hijab, having followed its progress in the news since 2021.

"Now, being [one of the first people] to actually wear it, I feel proud and empowered as a Muslim woman," PC Nas said.

"Day to day [the quick-release hijab] is really easy. It takes me about five minutes in total to get it on, then I'm out the house.

"In comparison to ones I used to wear, I always had that element of worry that I would be strangled while on duty.

"Having that element of trust that I will be protected whilst I'm on duty is a whole different element that is well-considered in the force."

Insp Marina Waka added: "It is reassuring to know that this new hijab, which will be issued as part of an officer's personal protective equipment, is comfortable and safe as well as looking smart and professional.

"I hope it will inspire other Muslim women to consider becoming a police officer knowing they can wear a hijab that protects them while fulfilling their religious requirements as well."

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