Trainee Greater Manchester Police officer charged with rape and kidnap of woman

A trainee police officer has been charged with the rape and kidnap of a woman in Manchester while off-duty over the weekend, Greater Manchester Police said.

Mohammad Hassan was charged in relation to reports made to the force on Saturday, which ended in a police pursuit on the M62 in West Yorkshire.

A woman was safeguarded at the scene and continues to be supported by specialist officers, the force said.

Hassan has been remanded in custody and has been suspended by the force.

The 23-year-old will appear at Manchester Magistrates' Court on Tuesday.

He has been accused of oral rape, kidnap, strangulation, sexual assault, theft of a mobile phone, and dangerous driving.

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Assistant Chief Constable Mark Dexter said: "Detectives and staff have been working on this investigation throughout the last 48 hours to ensure charges are brought in this case.

"The victim is our priority, and we are ensuring she continues to receive specialist support. Criminal proceedings must now take their course without interference.

"I understand, and share, the feeling among the public and our thousands of hard-working, decent staff who will have seen this news.

"Proceedings are underway and necessary action will be decisively taken within the regulations."

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