Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, has announced plans to revive and complete a probe into the accountability of firearms police officers who take fatal shots in the line of duty. This decision comes after a police marksman, Martyn Blake, was acquitted of murdering Chris Kaba. The review was initially promised by former Home Secretary Suella Braverman in 2023, with the aim of providing swifter decisions to suspended officers and more clarity to victims. Additionally, Tory ministers had considered raising the threshold for referring firearms officers for prosecution.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has indicated that his government will continue the accountability review initiated by the previous administration. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that the public has confidence in the police, especially in armed police forces. However, human rights barrister Abimbola Johnson cautioned against using Martyn Blake’s case as a basis for legal changes to the accountability of firearms officers. Johnson highlighted the rarity of police officers being prosecuted under the criminal justice system for actions taken while on duty.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has criticized the current accountability system as “broken,” expressing concerns that it may negatively impact the morale of firearms officers. Similarly, Matt Cane, the general secretary of the Metropolitan Police Federation, raised issues about the lack of operational experience among those investigating police shootings. He emphasized the importance of having individuals with a deep understanding of policing and the complexities involved in making split-second decisions in dangerous situations.
Chris Kaba, the individual shot by Martyn Blake, was revealed to be a “core member” of a dangerous criminal gang in London. Despite being unarmed during the incident, Kaba was allegedly connected to two shootings in the days leading up to his death. The Independent Office for Police Conduct is currently reviewing whether Martyn Blake should face disciplinary actions in relation to the shooting.
The ongoing scrutiny of firearms officers’ accountability underscores the need for a comprehensive and transparent review process that balances the demands of justice with the complexities of policing in high-pressure situations. As discussions continue on potential legal changes and reforms, it is essential to prioritize public trust in law enforcement and ensure that accountability measures are fair, effective, and aligned with the principles of justice and safety for all individuals involved.
