As happy as NX121-Martyn Blake must be of being cleared of murder, at what cost has this come?

When NX121 was put on trial for the murder of gangster Chris Kaba, it wasn’t just the one officer that faced trial, but every single firearms officers across our country. The repercussions of this trial were always going to be impactful for every officer that leaves a station carrying a weapon.

Demands to name the officer were pushed to the highest level by the media and now Martyn Blake who was acquitted of murder yesterday (Tuesday 21 October) faces living his life in hiding after it was revealed in the Mail that gangsters who knew Kaba, were offering upto £10K for information on his whereabouts and vehicle registration plates.

Chances of Mr Blake ever going back to work as he once did, are extremely slim. A well trained dedicated officer whose life changed in September 2022, is now well aware that he and his family will live in hiding for the foreseeable future.

The three week trial saw the jury deliberate for four hours to return with a not guilty verdict. Mr Blake had been cleared. His colleagues spoke clearly in court of that fateful night, some even going as far as saying if Mr Blake had not taken the shot, they would have done.

Judge Justice Goss allowed the restrictions on Kaba’s past to now be known to the media. Information already held by the CPS, politicians and all those who knew Kaba well. Kaba’s history of violent crime was there for all to see.

As happy as Mr Blake must be of being cleared, at what cost has this come? So many have hung their heads in utter disbelief that this case ever went to court in the first place. Yet it did. Twelve independent members of the jury sat through three weeks of evidence, from listening to officers including Mr Blake himself, to the watching of the body worn video of that night. The jury agreed-NX121 was not guilt of murder.

But what now for those who do undoubtedly the toughest job on our streets-firearms officers? This trial will stay with them and when they face a similar situation, will they undertake the same course of action? Or will they now fear for their own future and what will happen to them next?

This trial has left an element of doubt and fear for many officers right across the country. Also an element of insecurity and anxiety as to what their own future may well hold. The treatment of Mr Blake is a warning for all officers in just how quickly their life can be changed and the vast impact it can have for them.

Mr Blake may still face a Gross Misconduct charge by the IOPC, after how quickly his life has changed, perhaps this is the last thing he is actually worried about. Chances are he will not be able to go back to his job as he once did and keeping his family safe is now the most important element.

Very few people want to be firearms officers now and realistically who can blame them.

This was a difficult trial, an emotive one and one that will leave a lasting impact on every officer carrying a weapon not just across London, but nationally.

Stay up to date with all of our latest updates and content by following us on our social media accounts!

We have created community pages where we will share our up-to-date stories happening in the area. Add the area closest to where you live.