A police officer from the Greater Manchester Police force has died while visiting the Fairy Pools on Skye with his teenage son.
PC Shazad Saddique, 38, was visiting the popular destination on the island on Friday with his 13-year old son when he died suddenly.
The news of PC Saddique’s death was announced by Greater Manchester Police in a Facebook post on Saturday 20th July, while Police Scotland have confirmed that there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances.
Chief Superintendent Neil Evans, GMP’s Territorial Commander for Tameside, said: “Today is a very sad day for Greater Manchester Police.
“We received the update from Police Scotland last night and have since been working to provide support for PC Saddique’s family and close colleagues at this incredibly difficult time.
“I met with his family earlier today and they are understandably devastated by their loss. My thoughts and condolences are with them, and we will continue to do all that we can to support them.
“Although Shazad was only with us for a short amount of time, it is clear to see the significant impact he had, not only on the public but also on his colleagues.
“I spent some time with his close colleagues this morning and listened to all the lovely words they had to say about him, and the stories they had to tell. I think one of the main things which stood out to me, were just how much of an outstanding individual and role model he was.”
Paying tribute to him, his family said: “Shaz was the most selfless person you could ever hope to meet; he always put other people first and wanted to make every new experience a fun one…
“His final trip to the Isle of Skye was sincerely to gather a group and collectively praise Allah, as a spiritual retreat.
“He achieved so much and we were always so proud of him. He completed marathons all over the world and did hiking challenges throughout the UK, all in the name of raising money for charity.
“He loved his family more than anything; he was a supporting figure and a role model for his siblings. He was the best dad, and his wife and kids were his absolute world.
“It has been clear for us to see today, how much he meant to so many people and how many hearts he touched. The outpouring of support for the family has been huge and for that, we want to thank everyone.”
PC Saddique joined GMP 12 months ago and was a student officer based on the Tameside District. He enjoyed serving his local community and formed close relationships with many of his colleagues, who have described him as an outstanding individual and role model.
Outside of work, Shazad enjoyed hiking and trekking and was heavily involved in outreach work with youths in the local community, which focused on enabling youngsters to experience outdoor activities in the countryside.
He comes from a close family and his wife is currently pregnant with their fourth child.
Information and photo sourced from Greater Manchester Police Official Facebook page.