The Metropolitan police service has announced its firearms officers are back on normal duty, a week after some put down their weapons in protest at a colleague being charged with murder.
More than 100 officers were reported to have handed in their tickets, an accreditation to permit them to carry firearms while on the job, after the officer – identified only as NX121 – was charged on 20 September.
The protest action began after the Crown Prosecution Service’s decision to charge an officer with murdering Chris Kaba. The 24-year-old, who was unarmed, died after being shot through the windscreen of a car in Streatham Hill, south-east London, a year ago.
After the revolt, Scotland Yard acknowledged the situation had prompted “a number of officers” to “step back from armed duties while they consider their position”.
Scotland Yard placed the army on standby to cover counter-terrorism duties if needed and officers from other forces also provided the Met with help.
On Thursday evening the Met announced: “Over the past 24 hours, further armed officers have returned to armed duties ensuring we have a comprehensive and London wide firearms response in our communities, and at key protected locations.
“We no longer require mutual aid officers to assist in London, and we are grateful to our police colleagues who offered us their support.
“There remains no current requirement from the Ministry of Defence or armed forces for assistance.
“Senior officers continue to meet with and support colleagues through this time.”
After NX121 was charged, Scotland Yard acknowledged that officers had become “concerned that it signals a shift in the way the decisions they take in the most challenging circumstances will be judged”.
The Met commissioner, Sir Mark Rowley, said: “There is a concern on the part of firearms officers that even if they stick to the tactics and training they have been given, they will face years of protracted legal proceedings which impact on their personal wellbeing and that of their family.
“While previous reviews have been announced, they have not delivered change.
“Carrying a firearm is voluntary. We rely on officers who are willing to put themselves at risk on a daily basis to protect the public from dangerous criminals including terrorists.
“Officers need sufficient legal protection to enable them to do their job and keep the public safe, and the confidence that it will be applied consistently and without fear or favour.”
The Metropolitan Police Federation, which represents officers from the rank of constable to chief inspector, offered Sir Mark its support after the publication of his letter.
The home secretary, Suella Braverman, ordered a review of armed policing after the revolt, and the prime minister, Rishi Sunak, said officers needed “clarity” over the legal powers.
The officer appeared before Westminster magistrates court last week and was granted anonymity, a decision the media will challenge before an Old Bailey judge.
With PA Media
