After a three-week trial, the jury deliberated for nearly three hours before returning a not guilty verdict at the Old Bailey.

Metropolitan Police officer Martyn Blake has been acquitted of the murder of Chris Kaba, who was shot dead in Streatham, south-east London, on September 5, 2022.

Kaba, 24, was shot in the head after his vehicle was boxed in by police cars following a shooting incident he was involved in a day earlier.

During the trial, Blake's defense lawyer, Patrick Gibbs, emphasized that Blake acted as a human being under pressure, faced with a quick decision rather than as an infallible machine.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) will now evaluate whether Blake should face disciplinary action following the verdict.

Following the verdict, over 100 protesters gathered outside the Old Bailey, demanding justice for Kaba.

The decision to put Blake on trial sparked anger among his fellow firearms officers and the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Mark Rowley.

Blake defended his actions, stating he feared for his life and the safety of his colleagues as Kaba attempted to escape by ramming police vehicles.

Prosecutor Tom Little KC contended that Blake misjudged the situation and unnecessarily aimed for Kaba's head.

Kaba's family remained silent in the courtroom as the verdict was read, while Blake appeared emotional and expressed regret for the distress caused.

The IOPC acknowledged the rarity of fatal police shootings, highlighting the complexity and public interest surrounding the case.

Colleagues and senior officers provided testimonials praising Blake's character and actions during the incident.