Dozens gathered outside London’s Old Bailey court on Monday following the acquittal of a police marksman who fatally shot Chris Kaba, a 24-year-old black man, two years ago. Supporters chanted “Say his name – Chris Kaba” and held placards demanding “Justice for Chris Kaba.”
Kaba was shot dead in September 2022 while trying to stop the car he was driving in south London. The officer, Martyn Blake, 40, faced trial for murder but was cleared after the jury deliberated for about three hours.
Upon hearing the not guilty verdict, Blake was visibly emotional, while Kaba’s family sat in silence, later expressing their devastation and commitment to continue seeking justice.
Activists from the Justice For Chris Kaba Campaign, Temi Mwale and Kayza Rose, stated that the outcome was “painful proof” of a system that devalues black lives. They emphasized that the verdict reinforces a troubling reality: police can kill without facing consequences.
Kaba’s death has sparked ongoing protests, highlighting issues of systemic racism and the disproportionate impact of police violence on black men. Inquest director Deborah Coles remarked, “Chris’ death is not an isolated case but part of systemic racism and stereotyping that equates black men with dangerousness.”
The incident continues to fuel discussions around police accountability and the need for reform in handling state-related deaths.