Investigators have not found any non-police gun at the scene where police shot dead Chris Kaba in Streatham Hill.
The shocking revelation comes as Mr Kaba, 24, family from West Dulwich, demand a criminal inquiry into his killing.
Mr Kaba, a father-to-be from Wembley, was shot by police in Kirkstall Gardens, Streatham Hill on Tuesday, 6 September at 9.51pm, according to police watchdog the independent office for police conduct (IOPC). He died in hospital at 12.16am.
Specialist firearm officers had been in pursuit of the car after its licence plate triggered the force’s automatic licence plate recognition system, which they said was involved in an armed incident days earlier.
A firearm was discharged after they had made “tactical contact” with the vehicle in which Mr Kaba was sat. at around 10am.
Mr Kaba’s West Dulwich parents said they were heartbroken over their son’s killing. “My heart is broken, I am speechless, my heart is broken,” his mother told the BBC. “People have taken Chris from me, I don’t know how to say, but I need justice to be done for Chris, criminal justice.”
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The IOPC investigation is still going. Director Sal Naseem said: “We recognise that there is community concern following this incident and we appreciate that questions will remain around how Mr Kaba tragically ended up being fatally shot following an attempted vehicle stop.
“We are working hard to piece together all of the circumstances surrounding this incident and we want to reassure the community that these questions will be answered in due course, however it will take some time before our investigation is able to uncover all of the facts. While these details are still being confirmed, we ask that the public avoid speculating about this incident out of respect for Mr Kaba’s family and for anyone else affected.
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“This investigation is complex in nature and there is a large amount of evidence that our investigators are continuing to gather and review.
“While we have already undertaken some door-to-door enquiries in the neighbourhood, there is likely to be members of the public we are yet to speak to which may have information that could assist our investigation.
“Anyone with information that may be useful in helping us to paint the picture of the events that evening is asked to contact the IOPC by phoning 0300 303 0779 or by emailing [email protected](link sends e-mail) – referencing “Streatham Hill”.
“Our heartfelt sympathies remain with Mr Kaba’s family and friends, and everyone affected by this tragic incident.”
Met Police Commander Alex Boon said: “I would like to express my sincere condolences to the family and friends of the man who died and I recognise the devastating and lasting impact this tragic incident will have on them.
“I understand that this incident is extremely concerning and I would like to reassure the community that the Met is cooperating fully with the Independent Office for Police Conduct as they carry out a thorough and independent investigation.
“I also recognise that the family and community want answers about what happened. I know the IOPC investigators are working hard to establish the facts but also need some time and space to be able to progress their enquiries.
“Myself, along with the local policing commander, have met with key partners and community members, and will continue to actively work together to engage with, and to reassure the public, at this difficult time.”
