Student police officer charged with rape and kidnap

A trainee police officer has appeared in court accused of rape and kidnap.

Greater Manchester Police said a 999 call was received at about 22:20 BST on Saturday, during which a woman could be heard in distress in a vehicle in the Manchester area.

Mohammad Hassan, from Failsworth in Greater Manchester, who was off duty at the time, was arrested following a police pursuit on the M62 on Saturday night, GMP said.

At Stockport Magistrates' Court, Hassan, 23 - who also faces charges of strangulation, sexual assault, theft of a mobile phone and dangerous driving - spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth. No pleas were entered and there was no application for bail.

Speaking in court, prosecutor Ewan Cooper laid out details about the alleged incident, involving a woman in her 20s, on Saturday.

The suspect was later arrest on the M62 in West Yorkshire.

A force spokesperson said the victim was "safeguarded at the scene and continues to be supported by specialist officers and support services".

Hassan has been suspended by GMP.

Following the charges against Hassan, assistant chief constable Mark Dexter said: "The victim is our priority, and we are ensuring she continues to receive specialist support.

"Criminal proceedings must now take its course without interference.

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

Tuesday's hearing at Stockport Magistrates' Court lasted just over five minutes.

District Judge James Hulse told the defendant the rape and kidnap allegations could only be dealt with at a higher, crown court, and as the other alleged offences are linked to those, he was remanded into custody for a further hearing at Manchester Crown Court on 15 September.

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