Race row in Love Island police probe
Ex-cop Mike hits out at his old force
LOVE Island cop Mike Boateng was last night at the centre of a race row with his former police bosses.
The family of the reality show favourite accused Greater Manchester Police of racist abuse during his threeyear career there, posting a statement online saying he was called a “gorilla” in a training session.
The claims came after we asked the force and show bosses about ex-cop Mike, 28, being subject to an ongoing probe, believed to concern allegations of driving without a licence.
GMP said: “Allegations were made in 2019 which are under investigation by the Professional Standards Branch.”
But Londoner Mike’s family said the allegations being investigated were false and slammed police for failing to defend him. Writing on his Instagram page, they said: “We believe there is a clear attempt to tarnish Mike’s character. “We are disheartened by GMP’S response to these allegations. They have not risen to Mike’s defence. “Whilst working for GMP, Mike was subject to discrimination by officers including an incident where he was called a gorilla during a training session. Mike has not once spoken against the police and always tried to portray the force in a positive light.” Mike, who moved up to Bury, Greater Manchester, from south-east London, quit the force to star in Love Island’s first winter series. He is a favourite to win after pairing up with 22-year-old Leanne Amaning. The show did not comment. GMP made no comment on race claims.