inquest.org.uk

The Metropolitan Police officer charged with the murder of Chris Kaba has been denied anonymity for the continued criminal proceedings, at a hearing at the Old Bailey today.

Judge Mark Lucraft KC has ruled that the officer, currently known only as NX121, will be named on 30 January 2024.

The judge has decided that, although the officer’s name and possibly date of birth will be made public, their address will not be shared and there will be restrictions preventing photos or court sketches.

The Metropolitan Police Officer charged with the murder of Chris Kaba has been named as Martyn Blake, 40 years old, after an anonymity order was lifted at a hearing at The Old Bailey today.

Chris Kaba, 24, was fatally shot by a firearms officer from the Metropolitan Police over one year ago on 5 September 2022 in Streatham, London. He was an unarmed Black man.

No on-duty police officer has ever been found guilty of murder or manslaughter in relation to a police shooting, despite critical evidence arising from inquests, inquiries, and investigations.

Chris Kaba, 24, was fatally shot by a firearms officer from the Metropolitan Police (‘Officer NX121’) shortly after 10pm on 5 September 2022 in Kirkstall Gardens, Streatham Hill, London. His death prompted significant public outcry.

The police watchdog (the Independent Office for Police Conduct - IOPC) is conducting a homicide investigation into the fatal shooting.

Six months on, Chris’ family are still waiting for answers and action. Their three key asks since his death have been: