Officer's Murder Trial Begins in Controversial London Shooting

A trial has commenced for British police officer Martyn Blake, accused of unjustly shooting unarmed Black man Chris Kaba in London. Prosecutors argue Blake's actions were not justified. Kaba's death sparked protests. Blake, pleading not guilty, faces scrutiny over the incident's circumstances and his motivations.

The murder trial of British police officer Martyn Blake began on Wednesday, as prosecutors contend his decision to shoot unarmed Black man Chris Kaba was unjustified. Kaba died from a single gunshot wound to the head in Streatham, south London, on September 5, 2022.

Kaba's death ignited widespread protests and anger within London's Black community. The trial is taking place at London's Old Bailey court, where 40-year-old Blake pleaded not guilty to the murder charge.

Prosecutor Tom Little argued that Kaba, whose car was linked to a previous evening's shooting, posed no immediate threat when Blake fired the fatal shot through the vehicle's windshield. The trial is projected to last three weeks.

(With inputs from agencies.)