Police issue apology after enforcing 'incorrect' mask guidance at Oldbury Sainsbury's
Police officials have issued an apology after officers challenged a man in a supermarket in Sandwell over not wearing a mask.
Footage circulated on social media shows the man and his wife at Sainsbury's on Freeth Street, Oldbury, sometime last month.
Officers stated the man – who said he was exempt from wearing a mask on medical grounds – needed to produce a card or badge as proof.
He was then asked to leave the store despite arguing the officers "didn't have a right" to ask him to prove his medical condition, in line with the rules.
Now West Midlands Police has issued an apology, saying it was "incorrect" and the officers have misinterpreted the guidance around the issue.
A spokesman said: "We stated that it was a legal requirement for an exemption card or badge to be shown. This was incorrect and the officers have misinterpreted the guidance.
"We sincerely apologise for any distress and upset we have caused to the man and his wife.
"These are unprecedented times and we’re all adapting to the new legislation and guidance which has changed many times during the pandemic.
"The officers have been spoken to regarding their understanding of the guidance and current legislation around the wearing of face masks.
"We’ll also ensure that this is shared with all of our officers across the force, so we are certain that we’re all clear on the current guidelines."
