London’s Armed Police Strike: Met Firearms Officers Step Back Amid Murder Charge Crisis
In an unprecedented blow to London’s security, every Counter Terrorism Firearms Officer with the Met has withdrawn from armed duties—except for five currently on annual leave. The dramatic walkout follows the CPS charging a Met firearms officer with murder over the fatal shooting of unarmed Chris Kaba in Streatham Hill last September.
Armed Response Vehicles Grounded in Solidarity
The fallout has seen a sharp dive in armed patrols, with many Armed Response Vehicle (ARV) crews handing in their firearm authorisations for a “period of reflection.” Only two ARVs were reportedly active last night, down from the usual 15. Even firearms instructors, normally exempt, have refused to take to the streets, threatening to grind firearms training to a halt.
Met Brass in Crisis Talks as Army Poised to Step In
Senior Met commanders are scrambling to plug the alarming gap in armed coverage. The military has been placed on standby in case the capital faces a terror threat. Meanwhile, the specialist Counter Terrorism firearms unit has refused to deploy to London. Other forces have been called on for backup, but the outlook remains tense.
City of London Officers Join Protest
Showing solidarity, City of London ARV officers have also halted armed patrols. Tensions reportedly peaked after a Met Deputy Assistant Commissioner questioned the readiness of elite firearms officers, prompting a mass surrender of firearms tickets by counter-terrorism officers on duty.
National Debate Ignited as Home Secretary Acts
The charge against the officer over the Kaba shooting has sparked a fierce national debate about armed policing and use of force. Home Secretary Suella Braverman has thrown her weight behind the firearms teams and ordered an urgent review of armed policing policies. The government aims to restore confidence and keep the capital safe amid deepening unrest within the force.
The situation is evolving quickly, with police and officials working flat out to resolve the crisis and get London’s armed patrols back on the streets.
