The Metropolitan Police Service has been in dialogue with the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) regarding the change in status of their investigation into the death of Mr Jermaine Baker.

We have agreed to their suggestion that a firearms officer be suspended.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner, Peter Terry, from Specialist Crime and Operations, who is the senior officer leading post incident, said:

“The exact circumstances that led to Mr. Baker’s death must be thoroughly and independently examined. That is the role of the IPCC. It is only through establishing the full facts, as quickly as possible, as to what took place that day that the best interests of justice and of all those affected can be served.

“As this is an ongoing investigation we must all await the IPCC’s findings before drawing any conclusions or speculating on what has taken place.

“All of our firearms officers, who are all volunteers, do a job that is difficult and often dangerous. They all fully understand, quite rightly, that they will need to account for their actions if they use lethal force.

“The IPCC will receive our fullest possible support with their investigation.

“All of our officers involved in Friday’s operation are receiving all the possible support we can provide. This is a very difficult time for everyone affected by the death of Mr. Baker.

“Locally within Haringey and at a London-wide level the MPS are engaging with communities, to explain the different roles and area of responsibilities of the Met and the IPCC. This includes listening to and addressing any concerns raised.”

The ongoing investigation by the Organised Crime Command has now resulted in four men being charged with conspiracy to commit an indictable offence, namely, to aid the escape of Izzet Eren and Erwin Amoyaw-Gyamfi from lawful custody, contrary to common law.

Two of them were also charged with possession of an imitation firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence and driving a motor vehicle which had been taken without the consent of the owner.

Today, they appeared at Highbury Corner Magistrates Court where they were remanded in custody to appear at Wood Green Crown Court on 4 January 2016.

Two other men were arrested on Friday, 11 December on suspicion of conspiracy to facilitate the escape of an individual from lawful custody – they have been bailed to a later date in connection with this investigation.