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Manchester cafe owner says police tried to recruit him to spy on Palestine Action

Manchester cafe owner says police tried to recruit him to spy on Palestine Action

Summary

A Manchester cafe owner, Shams Sadiq, said police tried to recruit him to spy on the group Palestine Action by offering him benefits and turning a blind eye to minor offenses. He was questioned multiple times, had his devices taken, and remains under investigation for alleged offenses linked to Palestine Action.

Key Facts

  • Shams Sadiq owns two cafes in Manchester and is known for supporting Palestine.
  • In May, police offered him help and benefits if he informed on Palestine Action, a banned direct action group.
  • The police said they could overlook some minor crimes but not serious offenses.
  • Sadiq was questioned at Manchester airport under the Terrorism Act and had his devices seized twice.
  • The officers believed he was heavily involved with Palestine Action and wanted him to help find others with extreme views.
  • Sadiq declined the offer and made the information public for his safety.
  • His lawyer said the police conduct was similar to tactics used during the Northern Ireland Troubles.
  • Greater Manchester Police are being formally asked to address concerns about how they treated Sadiq.
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