The family of Love Island contestant Mike Boateng has blasted the media over “false” allegations published about him in the press.
On Sunday, The Sun published a story suggesting that, prior to entering Love Island, the former police officer was the subject of an investigation by Greater Manchester Police.
The tabloid claimed Mike was accused of “inappropriate behaviour” last year, which is still being investigated, though his family has said in a lengthy statement that the reports are “completely false”.
In a statement posted shortly before the story in question was published, they said: “We have been informed as a family that certain publications shall release stories of Mike over the next few days regarding his time at Greater Manchester Police. These stories… are false.”
Going on to accuse the press of “harassment”, they continued: “In an attempt to add credibility to these stories they have turned up at our family home and harassed our mother in the early hours of the morning.
“We believe there is a clear attempt to tarnish Mike’s character.
“Greater Manchester Police have unfortunately chosen not to deny any of the false stories, which will be published in the next few days. They had previously agreed with us that they would not comment to the press, which is why no stories have been released to date.
“GMP have now changed their stance and are releasing a blanket statement which does not outright deny the stories which shall be published.”
In a statement to The Sun, a Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: “Allegations were made regarding an officer in 2019 which are currently under investigation by the Professional Standards Branch.
“It is inappropriate to comment further whilst the investigation is ongoing.”
The tabloid also noted that Mike “denies the allegations against him”.
Mike’s family went on to suggest the press reports were “such a familiar routine with the British press, and how eager they are to see Black men fail”.
They continued: “It is a shame that the media in the UK constantly choose to portray Black men in a negative light, thus perpetuating negative stereotypes, which are not representative of most Black men across the country.”
HuffPost UK has contacted ITV for comment.
Mike entered the Love Island villa on the first day of this year’s series, and quickly coupled up with fellow contestant Leanne Amaning, and the pair have stayed together ever since.
Love Island airs every night on ITV2.