Chris Kaba: Met officer who shot unarmed rapper suspended

The officer who fired the shot that killed a 24-year-old rapper has been suspended, said the Met police in a statement.

Chris Kaba, a fiance, soon-to-be father and rapper from Wembley, died following a chase with armed officers ending in Streatham Hill, south London, on Monday night (September 5).

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) launched a homicide investigation on Friday into his killing.

Hours after new Metropolitan Police commissioner Sir Mark Rowley began work, Scotland Yard took the decision to suspend the unnamed officer involved.

Assistant Commissioner Amanda Pearson said: “Following the death of Chris Kaba, the firearms officer involved has been suspended from duty.

“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.

“We are actively supporting the IOPC investigation and would ask those with information that could be useful in establishing what happened to contact the IOPC directly to maintain the independence of their investigation.

“The decision to suspend the officer does not determine the outcome of the IOPC investigation.

“Firearms officers serve to protect the public and know that on the rare occasions when they discharge their weapons, they will face intense scrutiny.

“I know this development will have a significant impact on the officer and colleagues.”

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.”