Sgt Adam Ahmed: Officer cleared of misconduct at Hindu procession

Leicestershire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Rupert Matthews, declined a request to be interviewed but released the following statement.

“The IOPC’s findings confirm that this officer conducted his duties correctly, following force policy and with impartiality,” he said.

“I am pleased to see that there is no blemish on his record, as no-one should be castigated for undertaking their job responsibly, in order to keep people safe.

“The IOPC is, as the name states, independent. I hope that this outcome reassures the public that Leicestershire officers act professionally and with the public interest at heart.”

Leicestershire Police said “some learning for the officer has now been delivered”, but that Sgt Ahmed acted proportionately and in line with force procedures.

Dharmesh Lakhani, the community leader whose arrest prompted the investigation, told the BBC that he was never charged with any criminal offence.

“I want an apology. And I want my DNA and fingerprints scrubbed [removed].

“They have swept it under the carpet. It’s the police marking the police,” he added.

Mr Lakhani said he was now taking legal advice about whether he could make a civil claim against the Leicestershire force.