More than a hundred London police officers have had their licenses to carry a service weapon returned following a murder charge against one of their colleagues, according to a media report. Police have decided to “withdraw from armed operations while they review their position,” a Metropolitan Police spokesperson said on Sunday.
The police department supports the officers and “fully understands their genuine concerns,” the spokesperson added. According to the PA news agency, firearms specialists from neighboring regions arrived in the British capital to provide support.
Fatal shot of 24-year-old black man
The protest followed last week’s indictment of a police officer over the fatal shooting of a 24-year-old black man in September 2022. The young man died after the vehicle he was riding in was shot at in the Streatham area of London. The police officer who fired the shot has been suspended pending the investigation.
Murder charges against police officers in Britain are very rare
In Britain it is extremely rare for a police officer to be charged with murder. According to the NGO Inquest, a total of 1,870 people have died in or after police custody or after contact with police since 1990. In one case, a police officer was convicted of manslaughter in 2021.
34,000 officers are routinely unarmed
London’s approximately 34,000 police officers are not routinely armed and only a few well-trained officers are allowed to carry a weapon. They are also used to protect parliament, diplomatic missions and airports, among others.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
