London's police force has announced that some officers are refusing to conduct armed patrols following the murder of Chris Kaba, a 24-year-old unarmed Black man. Kaba was killed by officers in an unmarked vehicle, and the case has renewed allegations of institutional racism within the London police department. Kaba's family welcomed the murder charge against the officer, who has not been publicly named. He was granted conditional bail and is expected to stand trial next year.
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| Chris Kaba |
Only about one in 10 of London's police officers carry firearms, and those that do undergo special training. The Metropolitan Police force said that some officers have decided to step back from armed duties while they consider their position. The BBC reported that over 100 officers had turned in their firearm permits, and police from neighboring forces were called in to help patrol London on Saturday night.
Home Secretary Suella Braverman, in charge of policing for the UK's Conservative government, said she would review armed policing to ensure that armed officers have the confidence to do their jobs. She stated that officers risking their lives to keep the public safe have her full backing and will do everything in her power to support them.
Fatal shootings by police in the UK are rare, with armed officers in England and Wales firing weapons at people four times between the year to March 2022. It is also extremely rare for British police officers to be charged with murder or manslaughter over actions performed while they were on duty.
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