The trial of two brothers accused of assaulting a police officer at Manchester Airport has seen its jury discharged. Mohammed Fahir Amaaz, 21, and Muhammad Amaad, 26, had both pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against them.
The proceedings, which centred on an alleged incident at one of the UK's busiest airports, were underway when the decision to discharge the jury was made. Further details regarding the reasons for the discharge have not been publicly disclosed at this stage.
Incidents involving alleged assaults on emergency service workers are taken seriously by the courts, reflecting the vital role these individuals play in maintaining public order and safety. The Emergency Workers (Obstruction) Act 2006, and more recently the Assaults on Emergency Workers (Offences) Act 2018, have strengthened legal protections for those on the front line.
Manchester Airport is a major international gateway, handling millions of passengers annually. Security and policing operations are a constant presence to ensure the safety and smooth running of the transport hub.
The brothers will now await further instructions regarding the future of the case. It is standard procedure for the court to consider the next steps following a jury discharge, which can include the possibility of a retrial with a new jury, depending on the circumstances.