Teenager claims she was strip-searched by Greater Manchester Police over e-cigarette aged 14

A teenager has claimed she was strip-searched by Greater Manchester Police officers over an e-cigarette at the age of 14.

Her allegations come as an independent inquiry into the treatment of women and girls in GMP custody is continuing, led by former victims' commissioner Dame Vera Baird KC. Now 18, she alleged she wasn't given the opportunity for a responsible adult to be present, as per policy.

GMP, in response to her claims, said the teenager hadn't previously made the force aware, but confirmed it has 'made contact with her to ensure her complaint is formally recorded so it can be appropriately progressed'.

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The teenager, Sky News reported, said she was left humiliated by the experience and claimed the search was conducted near a glass door through which a male officer sat at a desk could see.

She told Sky News police believed she had an e-cigarette concealed. "They just said 'take your clothes off - keep your knickers and bra on'," she told the channel.

"They were searching in my toes, in my waistline, the waistband of my knickers - making me pull my bra up to see if anything dropped out. I was young. I didn't want anyone to see my body at that age, especially strangers."

The woman says she was arrested but not charged. Detective Chief Superintendent Mike Allen said: "When in police care in custody, people can and should expect to be treated with care and dignity, and within approved guidelines.

"Unfortunately, this report does not sound like these values were reflected in the young woman's experience. I thank Sky News for bringing this concerning complaint to GMP's attention.

"The young woman has not previously made