London protests over fatal police shooting of black rapper, accusations of racism
- ‘He had no weapon. So why was he shot? Why was he killed? He’s got a child on the way. We’ve had enough of injustice’, a protester said about Chris Kaba
- In June, London’s Metropolitan Police force was put into special measures after a series of high-profile scandals, and is being officially monitored
Dozens of protesters gathered outside the headquarters of London’s Metropolitan Police on Saturday, accusing the force of racism following the fatal shooting of 24-year-old black man, Chris Kaba.
Investigators are considering whether race was a factor in the shooting of rapper Kaba on September 5 following a police pursuit of his car, which ended in Streatham Hill, south London.
A firearms officer has been suspended while the UK’s Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) carries out a homicide investigation.
Kaba’s family have demanded a speedy resolution to the probe, but investigators have said it could last up to nine months.
“He had no weapon. So why was he shot? Why was he killed? He’s got a child on the way. His child is going to grow up with no dad. Why?” asked writer Chris Sibia.
“We’ve had enough of injustice. There’s countless events with black people being shot, in some cases killed, pushed over, heart attacks, killed by police,” he added.
“And we’re not offered the same justice other ethnic groups are.”
Met Police Assistant Commissioner Amanda Pearson said the force “fully supports” the investigation. “We continue to fully support the IOPC investigation as they work to establish the facts and try to answer the many questions Mr Kaba’s family and others have around his tragic death,” she said.
Protester Sanai Dixon-Thomas called for video of the incident to be released to the family. “I think we’re all here in hope of that happening, and soon as well,” the student said.
In June, the force was put into special measures after a series of high-profile scandals. Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) said it was officially “monitoring” the Met to help it improve.