Bristol police apology after ID checks in Easton spark fears of rising tension
POLICE have apologised after officers demanded to see identification from everyone in a cafe in Easton while they searched for a suspect.
The incident happened amid complaints about heavy handed police work within the Somali community in Bristol.
Hibaq Jama, a Somali-born city councillor who represents the Lawrence Hill ward, told the Bristol Post she was concerned tension between the police and the local community was rising.
Police chief superintendent for Bristol Jon Reilly admitted an incident at the Star Cafe in Stapleton Road was dealt with in a “brusque and disrespectful” way. But he insisted work was being done to rectify any mistakes and smooth relations.
Police say they were directed to the cafe by a witness of a domestic violence incident last Monday.
But when they arrived they spoke to the owner and then demanded to see ID from all of the 10 to 15 men inside.
The following week, officers returned to apologise about their conduct, following complaints.
Cafe owner Mohamed Ibrahim said: “When the police left everybody was angry. We were all just asking, why?
“When we ask why we think, ‘is it because we are black people?’ We think we are being treated unfairly.”
However, Mr Ibrahim added that he was happy with the way the police returned to apologise.
Local councillor Ms Jama said she had received about a dozen other complaints from constituents about “heavy handed” police work in the community.
The list included police searching properties without warrants, stop and searches and questioning children as young as seven.
She said: “I think it is utterly appalling and no way to treat a community. Police are using their powers and people are intimidated and scared. Tension is rising and we could be one hot summer away from a riot.”
Fellow ward councillor Margaret Hickman added that police need to address their conduct and be more respectful.
Chief superintendent Mr Reilly said he took on board complaints from the cafe and acted.
He said: “The cafe was pointed out to officers by a victim who gave a description. They thought he would be violent. When they got there, there was confusion and officers asked to see the ID.
“The manner in which this was carried out was described as brusque and disrespectful.
“We have accepted responsibility and we have apologised. We will learn from mistakes like these for the future.”
Referring to other complaints raised by Ms Jama, he added: “It is being investigated by professional standards. Whatever the outcome we are keen to learn from this and improve the way we do our work.”
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