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Chris Kaba Shooting and Misconduct Case Against Officer Paused
Chris Kaba was shot dead by Met Police officer NX121 (Sergeant Martyn Blake) in September 2022. The officer was acquitted of murder in 2024. IOPC paused gross misconduct proceedings in late 2024 ahead of law changes on police use of force standards.[1][2]
Why It Matters
Case highlights tensions in police accountability, use of force standards, and impacts on officers and victims' families amid calls for legal reforms.[1][3]
Timeline
5 Events
Met Deputy Assistant Commissioner Comments
Same day as IOPC announcement
Deputy Assistant Commissioner James Harman acknowledges pause but urges it be short, noting officer's life on hold for over three years and impact on Kaba family.[1][3]
Kaba Family Expresses Devastation
Wednesday, late 2024
Chris Kaba's family states they are 'devastated' upon learning of the pause and that Met had invited IOPC to halt proceedings.[2]
IOPC Announces Pause in Gross Misconduct Proceedings
Wednesday, late 2024
Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) pauses serving gross misconduct papers on officer NX121 until law changes on use of force test take effect, expected spring 2025. Met Police had urged dropping proceedings post-acquittal.[1][2]
Officer Acquitted of Murder
2024
Sergeant Martyn Blake (NX121) acquitted of murdering Chris Kaba by unanimous jury verdict at the Old Bailey after criminal trial.[1][2]
Chris Kaba Shot by Met Police Officer
September 2022
Chris Kaba, 24, was shot dead by Met firearms officer NX121 (Sergeant Martyn Blake) during a 17-second vehicle incident in Streatham. He was unarmed, according to family.[2]