Met Police to Hold Gross Misconduct Hearing for Officer Acquitted in Chris Kaba Shooting
IOPC Orders Hearing Despite Acquittal
The Metropolitan Police confirmed a gross misconduct hearing for the firearms officer known only as NX121, who was previously cleared of murdering Chris Kaba in October 2024.
Kaba, 24, was shot dead in Streatham, south London, in September 2022. His tragic death sparked national protests and intense debate over policing and the use of force, especially involving unarmed Black men.
Met Challenges Decision but IOPC Overrules
Despite a unanimous Old Bailey jury verdict in favour of NX121, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) insists there is a case to answer regarding the use of force.
The upcoming misconduct hearing will examine whether the officer’s actions breached police professional standards and amount to gross misconduct.
Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor said: “We made strong representations that NX121 should not face any further action due to the extensive evidence examined in court. However, the IOPC has determined that a hearing is necessary.”
He added: “NX121 made a split-second decision in a dynamic situation. Our firearms officers respond to over 4,000 armed incidents annually, yet shootings are incredibly rare. They remain among the most professional and cautious in the world.”
Hearing to Be Independently Chaired
To maintain fairness, a senior officer from another police force will chair the hearing. The Met said a date will be announced soon but will not comment further to protect the officer’s right to a fair hearing.
Case Background
NX121 shot Chris Kaba while he was in a vehicle connected to a previous firearms offence. During the trial, jurors accepted the officer genuinely believed fellow officers were in immediate danger.
The misconduct proceedings come after months of review amid significant public interest and calls for accountability.
Met Urges Public to Hold Back
The Met has appealed to the public to avoid speculation as the hearing process continues.
Further updates will be issued once the hearing is complete.
