The reinvestigation uncovers shortcomings in both individual actions and organisational practices during a controversial stop-and-search.
A reinvestigation into a stop-and-search incident, where the window of an Asian man’s car was smashed, has revealed significant failings in the conduct of both officers and the police force. The probe, conducted by the City of London Police, came after Ryan Colaco, a South Asian man, filed a complaint and sought a review by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). The incident, which occurred on May 29, 2020, near Cannon Street station, involved the smashing of Mr Colaco's car window by an officer, following a search on suspicion of drug possession during the COVID-19 lockdown.
The police force’s findings have been criticised by Mr Colaco’s lawyer, Sophie Khan, who stated that the reinvestigation demonstrated both organisational and individual failings. She highlighted that the incident should serve as an opportunity for change in the way black and minority ethnic individuals are policed in London. In the process, officers failed to substantiate the suspicion that Mr Colaco was involved in drug-related activities, and no illicit substances were found.
The report revealed that the officers’ claims of Mr Colaco behaving suspiciously by allegedly closing his car windows and reaching toward his waistband were contradicted by body-worn camera footage, which showed no such actions. The officers also lacked any specific intelligence to justify their actions and the use of force during the stop. One of the key points raised was the unnecessary smashing of the car window, which raised safety concerns, as well as the over-deployment of officers at the scene.
Detective Sergeant Oliver Walker expressed regret for the impact on Mr Colaco, acknowledging that the situation could have been handled more effectively. He also noted that officers could have taken alternative approaches instead of resorting to force. Additionally, the officers involved failed to complete the required GoWisely process, which would have informed Mr Colaco of the reason for the search.
While there was no evidence of racial or discriminatory bias, Detective Chief Inspector Carly Humphreys recommended that officers undergo further cultural sensitivity training to address unconscious bias, particularly in interactions with black individuals. The officers have been directed to complete refresher training on the use of force and the proper documentation of decisions during stop-and-search operations.
Mr Colaco, who has found driving more stressful since the incident, commented on the long-lasting mental health effects the experience has had on him. Meanwhile, City of London Police has vowed to implement the lessons from the review, including using independent external consultations to improve their approach to stop-and-search operations involving young black people.
The Metropolitan Police, who were involved in handling Mr Colaco during the incident, have also been approached for comment. Detective Chief Superintendent Becky Riggs of City of London Police confirmed that the force is taking the findings seriously and is committed to ongoing improvements in professionalism and public trust.
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The first day’s journey was through the pink fields
The first day’s journey was through the pink fields
The first day’s journey was through the pink fields