Leicestershire Police Introduces Special Hijab for Female Officers
The new design features a quick-release system allowing the lower section to detach if pulled during confrontations, helping officers maintain both safety and dignity, ITV News reported on Wednesday.
A hijab is a religious head and neck covering that leaves the face visible. The design process involved consultation with serving Muslim officers to ensure comfort, modesty, and practicality.
Leicestershire Police says the design is also attracting interest from other emergency services and may eventually be used in the private sector.
The concept was first envisioned more than 20 years ago by Detective Sergeant Yassin Desai. After reviewing international designs, DS Desai partnered with DMU in 2022 to create a hijab suitable for frontline duties.
“It’s actually taken years to develop properly. We completed the combat trials at Enderby with female officers wearing it and it held up. The bottom part was able to detach and the officer was able to keep her dignity,” he said.
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DS Desai highlighted that DMU has established the first UK-based manufacturing of this design. “It’s amazing to think after three years of research and development, we have got the design of this right, and we’re taking it forward together. It’s a great product, it’s safe and protects Muslim women’s dignity.”
New recruits, including PCs Hafsah Abba-Gana and Seher Nas, welcomed the initiative.
PC Abba-Gana said it reassures officers that “my faith and my role can work hand in hand, especially as someone who is new to the force.”
Inspector Marina Waka added that the hijab “is comfortable and safe as well as looking smart and professional” and hopes it will encourage more Muslim women to join the police.
Source: Agencies
