In a recent and alarming incident that unfolded at Manchester Airport, a police officer bravely recounted her traumatic experience of being assaulted while attempting to apprehend a suspect. Greater Manchester Police Constable Lydia Ward described the moment that left her “absolutely terrified” during a trial involving two brothers, Mohammed Fahir Amaaz and Muhammad Amaad, who are accused of the violent altercation.
The incident took place on July 23 of the previous year, within the car park pay station area of Terminal 2. According to PC Ward, she was called to respond to an assault report where a male matching Mr. Amaaz’s description had reportedly headbutted a customer at the nearby Starbucks café. In a mission to maintain public safety, PC Ward and her colleagues approached the suspect at a ticket machine, which ultimately led to her sustaining serious injuries when Mr. Amaaz allegedly punched her in the face.
As PC Ward testified in court, she strongly emphasized the fear she felt during the confrontation. She recalled being struck with an intense blow that caused her to lose consciousness briefly. “I remember falling on the floor and everything went black,” she stated. The physical impact of the punch resulted in a broken nose for the officer, further reinforcing the gravity of the situation she faced.
The court proceedings detailed how the confrontation escalated quickly. Mr. Amaaz purportedly resisted arrest, necessitating the involvement of his brother, Mr. Amaad, who allegedly aided him in attacking the police officers. During her testimony, PC Ward revealed that while attempting to control Mr. Amaaz’s arm to place him in handcuffs, the situation took a violent turn when he kicked out at her colleague, PC Zachary Marsden. This series of events not only raised alarms among the officers but also left PC Ward maintaining her resolve under frightening circumstances.
PC Ward reported pressing her emergency radio button for assistance, though it is noted that the punch she sustained had dislodged the battery, leaving her without immediate backup. The chaotic scene was further complicated by the presence of bystanders in the pay station who were shouting and filming the encounter on mobile phones, but she recalled feeling isolated, with no one coming to her aid. “I felt everyone in that room was against us,” she reflected, emphasizing the emotional toll alongside the physical pain imposed upon her.
Defense attorney Rosemary Fernandes argued during the trial that Mr. Amaaz was taken by surprise and acted in a moment of panic. This raises critical questions about the rapid escalation of violence and the perceptions of police presence in situations where suspects claim to feel threatened. PC Ward defended her actions and pointed out that they did not have the opportunity for “rational discussion” as events unraveled swiftly into violence.
Throughout the trial, graphic footage recorded by body-worn camera was presented to the jury, illustrating the aftermath of the attack. PC Ward appeared visibly distressed and bloodied, encouraging the court to recognize the severity of the threat posed to law enforcement professionals in public spaces.
The court has seen testimony detailing the claims against both brothers, with Mr. Amaaz accused of inflicting actual bodily harm not only on PC Ward but also on PC Marsden and a civilian at Starbucks. Mr. Amaad stands accused of similar charges specifically related to his actions against PC Marsden. Both men maintain their innocence in the allegations presented.
As the trial continues, it provides a sobering reflection on the challenges faced by police officers in the line of duty, often encountering hostility in situations where they are called to protect and serve. The testimony of PC Lydia Ward is a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of law enforcement and the emotional and physical toll it can take on those who dedicate their lives to public safety. The events at Manchester Airport serve as a broader commentary on the need for community support and engagement during such crises.
