Banners at Yassar death site

“I assure you West Yorkshire Police is co-operating fully with that ongoing Independent Police Complaints Commission investigation and will continue to do so. My officers and I really appreciate the continued support and co-operation of our communities while this process takes place.

“The intense media spotlight which has focused on West Yorkshire has clearly amplified interest in the issue and a local demonstration in Bradford highlighted the concerns of some people within our communities.

“I completely understand and empathise with the heightened community tensions and people’s wish to peacefully demonstrate.

“I am committed to working together with them to prevent a minority of individuals from behaving inappropriately and committing potential criminal offences.

“I have always been extremely proud of the strong relationships our officers have built up with our communities and our partners through our neighbourhood policing teams within our partnership working areas throughout the county.

“It is a relationship which works well and a style of policing which defines West Yorkshire Police which I am committed to maintaining.”

She added: “I have met with some elected members and community representatives to discuss their concerns and how we can continue to work together in the public interest.

“We all agreed that the safety of our communities is absolutely paramount and we need to continue discussions to raise awareness of the thoughts and feelings of our communities.”