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Monday 23/02/2026

Student Convicted in Manchester Airport Police Assault Case

Young man convicted in courtroom for assaulting police at Manchester Airport
Sofia RomanoSofia Romano

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Mohammed Fahir Amaaz, 20, was found guilty of assaulting two female police officers at Manchester Airport during a violent disturbance on 23 July last year.
  • Amaaz was convicted of causing actual bodily harm to PC Lydia Ward and assaulting emergency worker PC Ellie Cook, with the incident captured on viral video footage.
  • The jury could not reach a verdict on charges against Amaaz and his brother, Muhammad Amaad, for allegedly assaulting PC Zachary Marsden, prompting a potential retrial.
  • The defence argued that the brothers acted in self-defence, claiming the officers used "unlawful force" during the arrest.
  • The incident began after Amaaz allegedly headbutted a member of the public, Abdulkareem Ismaeil, at a Starbucks in the airport.

A student has been convicted of assaulting two female police officers during a violent altercation at Manchester Airport, an incident that gained widespread attention through viral video footage. Mohammed Fahir Amaaz, 20, was found guilty at Liverpool Crown Court of causing actual bodily harm to PC Lydia Ward and assaulting emergency worker PC Ellie Cook on 23 July last year.

Incident Overview

The altercation began when Amaaz, along with his brother Muhammad Amaad, 26, arrived at the airport to pick up their mother. The situation escalated after Amaaz allegedly headbutted Abdulkareem Ismaeil, a passenger at a Starbucks in Terminal 2. Police were called to the scene, and the confrontation with officers ensued at a car park ticket machine.

Court Proceedings and Verdict

During the trial, the jury was presented with various clips showing the sequence of events. Amaaz was seen punching PC Ward, breaking her nose, and knocking PC Cook to the ground. Despite the jury's inability to reach a verdict on charges against both brothers for allegedly assaulting PC Zachary Marsden, the prosecution is seeking a retrial on these counts.

Defence and Reactions

Both Amaaz and his brother claimed they acted in self-defence, arguing that the police used "unlawful force" during the arrest. PC Ward described the incident as terrifying, stating she had never experienced such violence in her police career. Mike Peake, chairman of the Greater Manchester Police Federation, highlighted the dangers officers face in their line of duty.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The case's outcome could have significant implications for police procedures and public perceptions of law enforcement. If a retrial proceeds, it may further scrutinize the actions of both the defendants and the officers involved. Legal experts suggest that the case could prompt discussions on the use of force by police and the rights of individuals during arrests. Additionally, the viral nature of the footage underscores the growing role of social media in shaping public opinion and influencing legal proceedings.

Images from the Web

Additional article image
Image Source: Greater Manchester Police
Additional article image
Image Source: CPS