Chris Kaba: Met suspends officer who shot dead unarmed man

A Met Police officer who shot dead an unarmed black man has been suspended from duty, the force has confirmed.

Chris Kaba, a 24-year-old rapper who was due to become a father, died after a single shot was fired in Streatham Hill, south London, on 5 September.

Mr Kaba was stopped by firearms officers when the car he was driving, which was not registered to him, was flagged by a number plate recognition camera as linked to a firearms incident in the previous days.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct has opened a homicide inquiry.

Met 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 IOPC 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 added that 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."

The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said he welcomed the decision and his "thoughts remain with Chris Kaba's loved ones at this intensely difficult time".

News of the suspension came as Chris Kaba's family and friends joined members of the local community in a vigil marking a week since his death.

Nick Johnson, BBC News

The anguished cries of Chris Kaba's mother punctuate the emotionally charged candlelit vigil here on this residential street in south London.

Friends and family light candles and lay bunches of flowers at this quiet street corner in Streatham, the scene where he was shot dead by police, a week ago.

Despite the news the officer involved in the shooting has been suspended, the atmosphere remains tense - most gathered here say the suspension is far too little, far too late.

Campaigners say there are more questions than answers and they will continue to fight for justice for Chris and his family.

Follow BBC London on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected]