Two brothers accused of assaulting police officers at Manchester Airport delivered 12 blows in 30 seconds during a violent confrontation, a court has heard.
Mohammed Fahir Amaaz, 21, and Muhammad Amaad, 26, both from Rochdale, are on trial at Liverpool Crown Court over the alleged assault of PC Zachary Marsden during an incident at Terminal Two on 23 July 2024.
Prosecutor Paul Greaney KC told jurors that Amaaz used a “high level of violence”, delivering “no fewer than 12 blows, a kick, elbow strikes and punches” to three officers within half a minute. The alleged attack left PC Lydia Ward with a broken nose, while PC Ellie Cook suffered minor injuries.
The court heard that the incident followed an earlier confrontation inside a Starbucks at the airport, where Amaaz was previously convicted of assaulting Abdulkareem Ismaeil. The dispute is said to have stemmed from a disagreement involving the defendants mother on a flight returning to the UK from Pakistan via Qatar.
Jurors were told the brothers went to the café after their mother identified Mr Ismaeil, before Amaaz allegedly headbutted and punched him in front of his family.
Police were called and later located the brothers at a car park payment area. At around 20:28, armed officers PC Marsden and PC Cook, along with unarmed officer PC Ward, attempted to arrest Amaaz.
The prosecution alleges both defendants assaulted PC Marsden, with Amaaz also attacking PC Cook and PC Ward, causing injuries including a broken nose.
PC Marsden told the court he later suffered post-concussion syndrome, including headaches, dizziness and memory issues.
The court heard that during the struggle, PC Marsden kicked Amaaz and brought his foot down towards his head in what was described as a stamping motion. Prosecutors said the officer actions must be considered in the context of the threat posed, including concerns his firearm could be taken.
Body-worn footage from officers is expected to form key evidence in the trial.
Both defendants deny assaulting PC Marsden and argue they were acting in self-defence.
The trial continues.
RELATED: https://bpinews.org/2024/12/brothers-charged-over-manchester-airport-altercation-with-police/