Yassar Yaqub, 28, was shot by an armed police officer near Huddersfield on the M62 motorway in January 2017. The incident occurred after Yaqub’s Audi was forced to stop by an unmarked police car.
A jury at Leeds Crown Court ruled that the armed officer acted in self-defence. The jury found that the officer “honestly believed his life was in danger” and used “reasonable force” when he fired three shots at Yaqub. Two bullets struck Yaqub in the chest, causing catastrophic blood loss.
The officer, identified only as V39, told the court he feared for his life and the lives of his colleagues after Yaqub pointed a revolver at him. A loaded gun was later discovered under the front passenger seat where Yaqub had been sitting.
Mohammed Yaqub, Yassar’s father, expressed anger and disappointment at the verdict. He said: “We are astonished and perplexed by the conclusion that this was a legal killing. We believe V39 murdered Yassar unlawfully. He was taken from us for no apparent cause.” Mohammed also criticised the coroner for making “a grave error” by not allowing the jury to consider whether the killing was unlawful. The family is currently considering a legal challenge.
West Yorkshire Police Chief Constable John Robins offered sympathy to the family but also highlighted the impact on the officers involved. He stated: “The loss of life is tragic. The last five to six years have been tough for those involved.”
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) supported the officer’s actions, confirming that his use of force was “necessary and appropriate” based on the facts and his reasonable belief that he was in danger.
Originally published by UKNIP.
