A video showing a British police officer kicking and stamping on a man’s head during an arrest at Manchester Airport in northern England has sparked protests outside a police station.

Police suspended one of the officers involved and referred the incident to an independent police complaints watchdog after the video, filmed by an onlooker, was posted on social media and attracted widespread criticism.

The video depicts a chaotic scene in an airport car park where officers armed with tasers restrained two suspects. The footage, which does not show the events leading up to the incident, captures an officer kicking and stamping on a man’s head as he lay face down. Another man also appeared to be struck in the head by an officer.

A Greater Manchester Police (GMP) statement called the video “truly shocking” and acknowledged the public’s concern. The use of such force in an arrest is rare and alarming, the statement added.

Police responded to reports of an assault, and three officers, including one female officer whose nose was broken, required hospital treatment. Initially, the officer involved was removed from operational duties but was later suspended.

The two men arrested face charges of assault, assault of an emergency worker, affray, and obstructing police.

The incident led to a protest outside a nearby police station, with videos showing at least 100 people chanting “Shame on you GMP.” Police reported that the protest concluded safely and without incident.

“We have spent the evening listening to community feedback and will continue to engage with communities and elected members to maintain strong partnership links and understand local views,” GMP said in a subsequent statement.