A misconduct hearing has begun for a Metropolitan Police marksman involved in the fatal shooting of Chris Kaba in Streatham Hill, south London, in September 2022. The officer, identified only as NX121, is facing an allegation of gross misconduct following the incident that led to Mr Kaba's death.
Chris Kaba, 24, was killed after his car was stopped by armed officers following a police pursuit. The vehicle, a Audi Q8, was hemmed in by two police cars on a residential street. NX121 fired a single shot through the windscreen, which struck Mr Kaba, who was unarmed at the time. He died later in hospital.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) launched an investigation into the shooting, which concluded in March 2023. The IOPC referred the case to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to consider criminal charges. In November 2023, the CPS announced that NX121 would be charged with murder. However, this charge was later downgraded to manslaughter by the Director of Public Prosecutions, and subsequently no charges were brought against the officer after a review.
Despite the decision not to pursue criminal charges, the IOPC directed the Metropolitan Police to hold a gross misconduct hearing. This hearing will examine whether the officer's actions breached professional standards of behaviour, specifically concerning the use of force. The proceedings are expected to be lengthy and will be held in private, a decision which has drawn criticism from Mr Kaba's family and their legal representatives.
The family of Chris Kaba has consistently called for accountability and justice following his death. They have voiced their frustration at the pace of the investigation and the subsequent legal processes. Their legal team has highlighted the importance of transparency in such cases to maintain public confidence in policing.
This case underscores ongoing scrutiny of police use of force in the UK and the mechanisms for accountability. It follows a series of high-profile incidents that have prompted calls for reforms and greater transparency within police forces. The outcome of this misconduct hearing will be closely watched by the public, legal professionals, and civil liberties organisations.
Source: BBC