A POLICE officer who started his career in Bradford almost twenty years ago has returned to the district to be its new leader.

Chief Superintendent Osman Khan has replaced former district commander Chief Superintendent Scott Bisset.

Ch Supt Khan, who officially took up his new post last month, began his policing career as a patrol constable in Eccleshill in 2000.

He has previously led the Tong and Wyke Neighbourhood Policing Team (which later became part of Bradford South) and has also served as a Detective Inspector in the district with CID, so he is well acquainted with his new patch.

His most recent role was as head of West Yorkshire Police’s Professional Services Directorate (PSD).

Previous to that, he served as a Superintendent in Kirklees, where he was responsible for safeguarding and partnership working.

Ch Supt Khan said: “I am delighted to be the new district commander for Bradford.

“I honestly never thought that when I started out as a police constable here nearly two decades ago I would one day return as the district’s chief officer.

“I know the district well from my previous roles here and it’s been clear from meeting the officers and staff that they are committed to serving the people of Bradford and working hard to keep them safe.

“This includes our partners who work with us to tackle issues such as child sexual exploitation and anti-social behaviour.

“I would like to thank Ch Supt Bisset for his excellent work here and hope I can build on that to make Bradford District an even better place for its residents, as well as those who work here and its many visitors.”

Ch Supt Bisset has left the district to be the new chief operating officer of the National Police Air Service (NPAS).

He said: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time as Bradford District’s commander.

“It has been a privilege to lead such hard-working police officers and staff, and I would like to thank them for their support.

“I would also like to thank the excellent partnerships and the communities who continue to work with us to keep the public safe.

“I’m excited by the challenge of my new role as NPAS chief officer and hope to use my twenty plus years in policing to lead the service to new heights.

“I firmly believe the district is in safe hands with Ch Supt Khan, who joins a top team at Bradford, and that he and his senior leadership team with the support of its hard working and dedicated police officers and staff will continue to make the district a safer place for all.”