A 27-year-old man has died at Manchester Airport after being arrested by Border Force officers, prompting an independent investigation by the police watchdog.
The man was stopped at Terminal 2 on Wednesday after reportedly displaying “unusual behavior” while passing through security. According to the Manchester Evening News, he was later detained in connection with alleged drug offenses. While in a holding area, he became unwell and was pronounced dead at 1:53 p.m.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an inquiry into the incident following a referral from the Home Office. Investigators were sent to the scene to gather evidence, and the man’s family is being supported by specialist officers.
An IOPC spokesperson confirmed: “We can confirm that we are independently investigating the circumstances of a 27-year-old man’s death following his arrest by Border Force officers at Manchester Airport on Wednesday, 19 February.”
The IOPC’s director, Amanda Rowe, extended condolences to the man’s family and emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation. “When someone dies after being taken into custody, it is important for there to be a thorough investigation to understand what has happened,” she stated.
The investigation remains in its early stages, and further details have yet to be disclosed.
