Leicestershire Police and De Montfort University unveil a specially designed hijab with quick-release safety features, empowering female officers to serve with dignity and faith.

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

A new hijab specially designed for female front line Muslim police officers is now in production in Leicestershire, United Kingdom, following a collaboration between the county’s police force and De Montfort University (DMU).

The innovative design includes a quick-release system, allowing the lower section to detach if it is pulled during a confrontation, ensuring the safety and dignity of officers. The hijab leaves the face clear while providing full head and neck coverage in line with religious requirements.

The design process involved consultation with serving Muslim officers, ensuring the final product is comfortable, modest, and fully functional. Its appeal has already attracted interest from other emergency services, including paramedics, and there are plans for possible private sector use.

The idea was first conceived more than 20 years ago by Leicestershire Detective Sergeant Yassin Desai. After reviewing global designs, DS Desai partnered with DMU in 2022 to create a hijab that could withstand the rigours of frontline policing.

“It’s taken years to develop properly,” DS Desai said. “We completed combat trials at Enderby with female officers wearing it, and it held up. The bottom part detaches so the officer can maintain her dignity in any situation. No one else has been able to make these — only DMU. After three years of research and development, we’ve finally got it right.”

New recruits, Police Constables Hafsah Abba-Gana and Seher Nas, welcome the innovation. PC Abba-Gana said: “It is reassuring to know that my faith and my role can work hand in hand, especially as someone new to the force.”

Inspector Marina Waka highlighted the broader impact, stating: “This hijab, issued as part of personal protective equipment, is safe, comfortable, and professional. I hope it inspires other Muslim women to consider policing, knowing they can serve while observing their faith.”

Source: ITV New