MISCONDUCT proceedings have been dropped against the police officer who fatally shot unarmed black man Chris Kaba, in a “devastating blow” to his family.

Sgt Martyn Blake shot the 24-year-old in Streatham, south London, in 2022 after he tried to ram his way past police cars.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said a decision was made in January to pause any proceedings involving the officer until a law change, relating to the use of force in misconduct cases, was introduced and its impact clear.

The use of force test in such cases changed in June from the civil law test to the criminal law test, meaning actions that did not amount to a crime should not amount to misconduct either.

Temi Mwale, of Justice for Chris Kaba, said yesterday the campaign is “appalled by the decision.”

“This is a devastating blow — not just to Chris Kaba’s family, but to everyone who cares about living in a society where the police are not above the law,” she added.

“The extraordinary treatment of Martyn Blake throughout this case sends a dangerous message. When police kill, the system will bend over backwards to protect police officers rather than hold them accountable and deliver justice.” 

She said the IOPC had chosen “not to do the right thing. That decision is deeply damaging to public confidence in its independence and its willingness to hold police officers to account.”

Inquest campaign group director Deborah Coles said: “It is clear from our work that when police kill, they remain above the law.

“The IOPC’s capitulation to firearms officers demonstrates a troubling reluctance to provide fearless and independent oversight.”

IOPC director of engagement Amanda Rowe said the institution had “always sought to avoid any unnecessary delays” in Sgt Blake’s case, but argued it was correct to pause until the impact of new legislation was understood.

A coroner will now decide whether an inquest will take place into Mr Kaba’s death.

Sgt Blake was cleared of murder following a trial in 2024.

Met Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said the decision “finally brings to an end almost four years of uncertainty for him, his family and the wider firearms command.”