POLICE have revealed that five officers were investigated over claims made by former bobby Mike Boateng who is appearing on this season's Love Island.

The 24-year-old lived in Bury, worked for Greater Manchester Police and played football for Eagley Football Club in Bolton before leaving to become part of the ITV show's cast.

But, GMP had to investigate after Mr Boateng claimed that he had been "subjected to racist behaviour during his initial training".

Now, a spokesman for the force has revealed that five people were put on restricted duties as a result of the allegations and investigations are still ongoing.

In a statement, they said: "We can confirm that in 2017 a serving officer alleged that he had been subjected to racist behaviour during his initial training with Greater Manchester Police. "

"Five officers were placed on restricted duties while the allegations were thoroughly investigated by the Professional Standards Branch. As a result, the five officers were dealt with under the Unsatisfactory Performance Procedure, which is set out in the Police Performance Regulations of 2012.

"There is absolutely no place for racism within GMP. It is important that all our staff are treated fairly and with respect and we have made significant improvements to the diversity of our workforce over recent years. However we realise the damage these instances can cause and we apologise for any suffering this matter has caused him."

Mr Boateng was also subject to complaints relating to his own conduct which are also under investigation.

The GMP spokesman added: "Previously we received media inquiries in relation to a separate investigation by the Professional Standards Branch into the conduct of a former GMP PC whilst he was a serving officer. In respect to these inquiries, we confirmed that allegations were made regarding an officer in 2018 and 2019, which are currently under investigation by the Professional Standards Branch.

"These include a complaint from a member of the public.

"We wish to be clear that any allegations must be investigated thoroughly and we must be fair to both those that have made them and those which are subject to them. There should be no presumptions made until all enquiries have been completed and decisions made.

"It would be inappropriate to comment further while the investigation is ongoing."