MPS firearms officer in fatal shooting suspended from duty

Mr Kaba died after a single shot was fired by an MPS officer from the specialist firearms command while police attempted to stop and contain the vehicle he was driving in Streatham Hill on Monday (September 5).

The vehicle was stopped following the activation of an automatic numberplate recognition camera, which indicated the car had been linked to a firearms offence in the previous days.

MPS Assistant Commissioner Amanda Pearson said: “Following the death of Chris Kaba, the firearms officer involved has been suspended from duty.

“This decision has been reached following careful consideration of a number of factors, including the significant impact on public confidence, and in light of the Independent Office for Police Conduct announcing a homicide investigation.

“Our thoughts and sympathies remain with Mr Kaba’s family and friends. We understand how concerned communities are, particularly Black communities, and thank those who are working closely with our local officers.

“We are actively supporting the IOPC investigation and would ask those with information that could be useful in establishing what happened to contact the IOPC directly to maintain the independence of their investigation.”

She added: “The decision to suspend the officer does not determine the outcome of the IOPC investigation. Firearms officers serve to protect the public and know that on the rare occasions when they discharge their weapons, they will face intense scrutiny. I know this development will have a significant impact on the officer and colleagues.”

Chief Constable Simon Chesterman, National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for armed policing, said: “I offer my condolences to the family and friends of Chris Kaba.

“The IOPC has announced a homicide investigation, and the firearms officer involved has been suspended from duty.

“Firearms officers understand the level of accountability and scrutiny that follows what is often a split-second decision made under intense pressure and annually, respond to around 20,000 calls across the UK.

“The IOPC must now be afforded the opportunity to independently establish the facts of the case.”