The Home Secretary, Suella Braverman, has initiated a review of armed policing procedures after numerous officers in London turned in their weapons, expressing concerns about a recent murder charge against a marksman. The review was triggered by a Metropolitan Police officer being charged with murder in relation to the fatal shooting of 24-year-old Chris Kaba in south London last year.

The charging decision has raised apprehensions among many armed police officers, leading to them relinquishing their firearms. This move has sparked a debate over the potential impact on armed police officers’ ability to carry out their duties effectively without the fear of legal consequences.

Suella Braverman addressed these concerns on Sunday, emphasising the critical role of armed police in maintaining public safety. She highlighted that officers often face “split-second decisions” under extreme pressures and are tasked with risking their lives to protect society from the most dangerous and violent individuals.

The Metropolitan Police acknowledged the apprehension among firearms officers regarding the murder charge’s implications for their work. Reportedly, more than 100 officers have handed in their firearms permits as a result. In response to this situation, armed officers from neighbouring forces have been deployed as a contingency measure.

While the Metropolitan Police emphasised that the majority of armed police officers in London are still part of their force, they have received support from a limited number of firearms officers from neighbouring regions starting Saturday evening.

Home Secretary Suella Braverman assured the public that armed officers have her full backing, and she pledged to do everything within her power to support them in their vital role in ensuring public safety.