A police marksman who fatally shot Chris Kaba was described as “calm and collected” and possessing “sound” judgment by a senior colleague. In the trial of Martyn Blake for Mr Kaba’s murder on September 5, 2022, a Tactical Firearms Commander (TFC) identified as HA62 provided evidence. HA62, who was on duty that night, had declared a firearms incident and ordered an “enforced stop with extraction” after a suspect Audi associated with Mr Kaba was spotted in south London.
During questioning, HA62 confirmed that Blake, a trained Tactical Firearms Adviser, had worked together with him on previous occasions. When asked about Blake’s temperament, HA62 described him as calm and collected, with sound judgment. The witness testified that he had never seen Blake become angry or frustrated while on the job. The prosecution suggested that Blake might have had an emotional response to Mr Kaba’s actions prior to being shot, as Mr Kaba had reportedly tried to ram police vehicles to escape.
HA62 informed the court that Blake had initially been scheduled to serve as the Tactical Firearms Adviser in the Special Operations Room that night but had switched to an Armed Response Vehicle (ARV). After receiving information about the Audi linked to a shooting incident in Brixton, HA62 declared a firearms incident and called for an enforced stop with extraction of the vehicle. Despite no victim being identified or a firearm being recovered, the suspects remained at large.
As the ARVs followed the Audi in Camberwell, HA62 suspected that the driver was aware of the police presence due to the route taken. A helicopter had been deployed and was live-streaming when the fatal shooting occurred. It was revealed that no firearm was found in the Audi. AC38, the Tactical Firearms Adviser on duty that night, defended the decision to initiate the enforced stop with extraction, stating that inaction was not an option, and it was crucial to prevent potential future crimes.
The trial of Martyn Blake, who denies the murder of Chris Kaba, was adjourned until the following day. The court heard that the longer the operation to stop the Audi went on, the greater the risk to officers. AC38 emphasised that it was necessary to seize the opportunity to prevent any potential criminal activity. The testimonies of the witnesses shed light on the events leading up to the fatal shooting and the decision-making process involved in the operation.
The case continues with further evidence and testimonies to be presented in court. Stay tuned for updates as the trial unfolds.