Student police officer charged with rape and kidnap

A trainee police officer has been charged with the rape and kidnap of a woman in Manchester.

Mohammad Hassan, 23, serving with Greater Manchester Police (GMP), has been charged with multiple offences after reports made to the force on Saturday evening which ended in a pursuit on the M62 in West Yorkshire.

The force previously said a 999 call had been received at about 22:20 BST during which a woman could be heard in a vehicle in the Manchester area.

Hassan, who has been suspended by the force, has been charged with rape, kidnap, strangulation, sexual assault, theft of a mobile phone and dangerous driving. He is due to appear at Manchester Magistrates' Court later.

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

"Criminal proceedings must now take its course without interference."

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

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Manchester on Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.