Hampshire Guns for Met After Mass Firearm Permit Drop
Hampshire Constabulary has rushed in with armed officers to back up the Metropolitan Police. This comes after a shocking wave of over 100 Met officers handed in their firearm permits in protest.
Why Are Met Officers Standing Down?
The unrest follows a tragic shooting in south London, where a Met firearms officer stands charged with murdering 24-year-old Chris Kaba. The backlash has left the Met struggling to keep its armed duties covered.
Hampshire Steps Up, But With Caution
Zoe Wakefield, Chair of the Hampshire Police Federation, confirmed the deployment. “Carrying a firearm is voluntary,” she said. “Officers must personally assess if they’re fit to carry each day. No one can be forced.”
Wakefield added that Hampshire itself has not seen any firearms officers giving up permits but is watching the Met situation “with some concern.”
PM Demands Clear Legal Guidance for Armed Cops
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak backed a review led by Home Secretary Suella Braverman. He said officers need crystal-clear legal powers to perform their duties confidently and keep the public safe.
“Officers make split-second decisions to protect us and deserve our gratitude for their bravery,” Sunak noted. “We’re committed to ensuring they have strong guidance and public trust.”
While steering clear of commenting on ongoing cases, the PM stressed the urgent need to bolster police confidence and transparency amid the growing turmoil.
