The Women's Rights Network (WRN) described the guidance as an "ill thought-out mess" which shows a lack of consideration for female officers.

The guidance covers a range of searches, including internal inspections of body cavities for prohibited items.

Under the policy, which the force adopted in June, transgender suspects who need to be searched can request the procedure is carried out by officers who are of a different sex.

Women's Rights Network say current guidelines put pressure on female officers to consent(Image: Norfolk Constabulary)

For instance, someone who is biologically male but identifies as a woman can asked to be searched by a woman officer.

Searches can only go ahead with written consent from the detainee, the officer involved........

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