The firearms officer who fatally shot Chris Kaba in south London a week ago has been suspended from duty over the incident, according to the Metropolitan Police.
The 24-year-old rapper was killed last Monday night (5 September) after a police pursuit of a car that officers say was linked to a previous firearms offence ended in Streatham Hill, south London.
Police say the decision was made after 'careful consideration' of a number of factors, and that their 'thoughts and sympathies' remained with Mr Kaba's family and friends. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has also launched a homicide investigation into his death.
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Thousands marched in London over the weekend, calling for the suspension of the officer and carrying placards proclaiming “justice for Chris Kaba”, “abolish the Met” and “no justice, no peace”.
On the night of Kaba's death, following a chase by police, his Audi was blocked off by two police cars in the narrow residential street Kirkstall Gardens before police fired one round. Officers immediately administered CPR with Mr Kaba being taken to hospital where he later died in the evening, the IOPC confirmed. No gun was found in the car.
Assistant Commissioner Amanda Pearson said: “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.”
She also said that the Metropolitan Police were supporting the IOPC with their investigation.
Ms Pearson had said on Friday that the officer involved was not currently on operational duties and their work status would be “carefully considered going forward”.
Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I welcome this decision and am in regular contact with the IOPC and the new commissioner.
“My thoughts remain with Chris Kaba’s loved ones at this intensely difficult time as the IOPC continue their independent homicide investigation.”
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