posted 30th April 2025
Kemi Badenoch Slams IOPC for Pursuing Case Against Police Officer Cleared of Murder
London, 30 April 2025 – Kemi Badenoch, a prominent Conservative MP, has fiercely criticised the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) for initiating gross misconduct proceedings against Sergeant Martyn Blake, a Metropolitan Police officer recently acquitted of murder in a high-profile case. In a strongly worded statement on X, Badenoch called the IOPC’s actions “unbelievable” and urged the government to intervene urgently.
The controversy stems from the fatal shooting of Chris Kaba by Sgt Blake in September 2022. Kaba, who was unarmed at the time, was shot during a police operation in south London. The incident sparked significant public debate, and Sgt Blake was charged with murder, a decision Badenoch labelled a “disgrace” at the time. After a trial at the Old Bailey, a jury unanimously found Sgt Blake not guilty, a verdict Badenoch attributes to the “sense and decency” of ordinary Londoners.
However, the IOPC’s decision to pursue a gross misconduct case against Sgt Blake has reignited tensions. Badenoch argues that this move exemplifies an “over-interpretation of guidelines” that hampers policing and discourages capable individuals from joining the force. She highlighted that the jury’s decision was made without access to CCTV footage, ruled inadmissible by the judge, which allegedly showed Kaba shooting a rival gang member.
“Heroes like the police officer who shot Chris Kaba are all that stand between us and the predators, thieves, and maniacs,” Badenoch wrote on X. “We need to support police officers who do difficult things to protect the public, provided they act in accordance with the law, as a jury found Sgt Blake did.”
Badenoch’s comments have drawn both support and criticism. Supporters argue that police officers face undue scrutiny for making split-second decisions in dangerous situations, while critics contend that robust oversight is essential to maintain public trust in law enforcement.
The IOPC has defended its actions, stating that its investigation is independent and focused on whether Sgt Blake’s conduct adhered to professional standards. The Home Office has yet to respond to Badenoch’s call for government intervention.
