Met Police Marksman Martyn Blake Faces Gross Misconduct Probe Despite Murder Acquittal
Metropolitan Police marksman Martyn Blake is on the brink of a gross misconduct hearing, even though a jury cleared him of murder in the fatal shooting of Chris Kaba. The 40-year-old was acquitted at the Old Bailey after a three-week trial, but police watchdogs are still scrutinising his actions, blocking his return to duty.
IOPC Set to Order Disciplinary Hearing
The Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) plans to launch a gross misconduct hearing for Blake. This follows a recent Supreme Court ruling tied to the 2015 fatal shooting of Jermaine Baker during a prison break attempt. While the IOPC reviews evidence from Blake’s trial, the Metropolitan Police will get a chance to present their stance before any final ruling.
Blake’s Trial and Shocking Aftermath
- Blake was acquitted in just three hours of all charges relating to the shooting of 24-year-old Kaba on 5 September 2022 in Streatham, southeast London.
- During the trial, Blake claimed he feared for his life when Kaba attempted to ram a police stop in an Audi Q8 linked to a firearms incident.
- Despite the not-guilty verdict, sources reveal the Met initially wanted to pursue disciplinary action but hesitated after Blake’s acquittal.
- The IOPC’s stance means Blake remains under tight scrutiny and out of work for now.
Safety Concerns and Public Outcry
Fears for Blake’s safety have escalated. The officer is believed to be in hiding after a £10,000 reward was reportedly offered for info on his location. The intense public backlash, fueled by protests demanding justice for Kaba, has put him and his family on edge.
The IOPC’s review is standard practice when officers are cleared criminally but might still face disciplinary action. Their investigation revisits trial evidence to decide if misconduct charges are justified.
Divided Opinions Stir Up Tensions
The case has rocked the police force and the public alike. Hundreds of firearms officers protested when Blake was charged, defending his actions as protecting colleagues. The Met Commissioner lauded his bravery, while MP Robert Jenrick called Blake a “hero” and slammed the prosecution as a threat to public safety.
Chris Kaba Protests and Gang Links Revealed
- Following Blake’s acquittal, over 200 protesters gathered outside the Old Bailey demanding “Justice for Chris Kaba.” Campaign group Inquest said Kaba’s family would continue fighting for accountability and change.
- Kaba was linked to the notorious 67 gang in South London, with a violent history including a nightclub shooting tied to a drugs feud.
- The judge lifted media restrictions on revealing Kaba’s criminal background during the trial.
- Kaba’s cousin, Sheeda Queen, slammed the quick verdict as “shameful,” describing the trauma endured by the family watching the footage of his death.
The IOPC’s investigation continues, with the Met Police providing input before a final decision on Blake’s disciplinary future is made.
