Met firearms officer not guilty of murdering Chris Kaba in police shooting

For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. The acquittal of Martyn Blake isn’t just a failure for our family – but for all those affected by police violence.” The verdict reignited debate over police accountability, with Conservative Party leadership hopeful Robert Jenrick hailing the officer a “hero” in a post on Twitter/X as he branded the decision to prosecute him “wrong”. open image in gallery Chris Kaba was shot by police firearms officer Martyn Blake in Streatham, south London, in September 2022 The trial heard the Audi that Mr Kaba was driving had been used as a getaway vehicle in a shooting in nearby Brixton the night before and was followed when a police officer recognised the number plate. He is not a robot, he is a human being with a human brain who did this to the best of his ability.” open image in gallery Chris Kaba’s parents, Helen Lumuanganu and Prosper Kaba, have been at the Old Bailey throughout Martyn Blake’s trial Police watchdog the Independent Office for Police Conduct will now consider whether Mr Blake should face a disciplinary hearing. Each day, police officers across the country work hard with bravery and integrity to keep the public safe.” open image in gallery A videograb from footage of the initial pursuit of the Audi driven by Chris Kaba Frank Ferguson, head of the CPS Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, defended the decision to charge the officer.