'Quick-release' hijab for female police developed
A hijab featuring a magnetic "quick-release system" designed to help female Muslim police officers on patrol has been put into production.
The headwear has been created by researchers at De Montfort University (DMU) with Leicestershire Police, with the magnetic attachment allowing the lower section to detach instantly if pulled in a confrontation to prevent the "risk of strangulation while maintaining modesty".
Student officer PC Seher Nas says she feels "proud and empowered as a Muslim woman" when wearing the hijab as part of her police uniform.
As well as interest from forces around the country, DMU said it had been fielding inquiries from NHS trusts, paramedics and the private sector.
Det Sgt Yassin Desai, the founder of Leicestershire Police's Association of Muslim Police, said the design had taken three years to develop.
Ruby Begum was hailed an inspirational role model after footage showing her bravely confronting anti-lockdown protesters while wearing a hijab went viral two years ago