Home Secretary Suella Braverman has voiced her support for armed police officers who have relinquished their weapons following the recent charging of a police marksman with the murder of Chris Kaba. This announcement comes in the wake of protests among the gun cops, with over 100 officers reportedly stepping back from firearms duties.
Chris Kaba, a 24-year-old, was tragically killed in south London last year in an incident where he was unarmed. A Metropolitan Police officer appeared in court last Thursday in connection with Kaba’s fatal shooting.
In response to the concerns raised by armed officers, Home Secretary Suella Braverman emphasized the critical role of firearms officers in maintaining public safety. She stated, “We depend on our brave firearms officers to protect us from the most dangerous and violent in society. In the interest of public safety, they have to make split-second decisions under extraordinary pressure. They mustn’t fear ending up in the dock for carrying out their duties. Officers risking their lives to keep us safe have my full backing, and I will do everything in my power to support them.”
In addition to expressing her support, Home Secretary Braverman has initiated a review to ensure that firearms officers have the confidence to perform their duties effectively while safeguarding the public.
The fatal shooting of Chris Kaba occurred in Streatham Hill in September 2022 when he was shot through the windscreen of a car he was driving by a Metropolitan Police firearms officer. The incident prompted widespread protests, including from British rapper Stormzy, and led to a murder investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
Recently, after over a year of investigations, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) authorized a murder charge against the police officer involved, identified only as Officer NX121.
The protests and concerns among armed officers have led to a significant number of them temporarily stepping back from firearms duties. The Metropolitan Police expressed understanding for their officers’ concerns, noting that the number of officers doing so has increased over the past 48 hours.
Over 100 police officers have voluntarily handed in their firearms accreditation, which permits them to carry firearms while on duty, according to reports.
The Metropolitan Police is committed to supporting officers who have opted to step back from armed duties, aiming to address their concerns. A spokesperson for the Met stated, “Our priority is to keep the public safe. We are closely monitoring the situation and are exploring contingency options, should they be required.”
To compensate for the reduced police presence, officers from neighbouring forces have stepped in to assist with patrolling the capital.
The officer charged in connection with Chris Kaba’s death, Officer NX121, appeared in both Westminster Magistrates’ Court and the Old Bailey last Thursday.
