Terror raid shooting was 'accidental'

The shooting of a man during an anti-terror raid in east London was an accident, the Independent Police Complaints Commission has said.

Mohammed Abdul Kahar, 23, was shot during the raid at his home in Forestgate on June 2.

The IPCC said that, based on the findings of independent forensic scientists, it had concluded that the discharge was an accident as a result of contact on a narrow staircase between the police officer and Mr Kahar.

IPCC Commissioner Deborah Glass said: "I conclude that the officer has committed no criminal or disciplinary offence.

"Based on the report of the forensic scientist I am satisfied there is no evidence of intent or recklessness on the part of the firearms officer and that no offence was committed in the firing of the weapon.

"There is no evidence to support the speculative reporting that the weapon was fired by one of the brothers, or that it was a deliberate act by the police officer."

The raid was carried out in order to search for a suspected chemical device. Mr Kahar and his 20-year-old brother Abul Koyair were arrested under the Terrorism Act, but were released on June 10 after no trace of the alleged device was found in their home.

Mr Kahar was later arrested on child pornography charges.

Ms Glass said that an investigation into claims made by the families subjected to the raid, including allegations of assault, unlawful arrest and detention, was continuing. She said: "We will also look at the lawfulness of the police operation. These investigations are at an early stage. Any recommendations about the Metropolitan Police Service's handling of the counter-terrorist operation will be made following the conclusion of the further investigation."

(KMcA)