Menezes officer gives evidence

The man, codenamed Ivor, told the Old Bailey he felt frustrated and uncomfortable.

He said: "I felt it was prudent to detain the man prior to entering the tube station. I saw the ticket barrier as a line in the sand.

"Firstly, members of the public would be closer to the subject. Secondly, the exposure of the surveillance team heightens the risk of compromise.

"Surveillance on the tube becomes more difficult. I was also aware we would lose communications."

As Ivor and another surveillance officer codenamed Ken shadowed Mr De Mnenezes down the escalator, there was the sudden and unexpected arrival of the specialist firearms team CO19.

Four armed officers appeared with semi-automatic rifles and pistols.

By the time they arrived downstairs and onto the platform, the train was standing with the doors still open.

There were three surveillance officers sitting in the same carriage as the Brazilian electrician.

Ken told the court: "The male in denim appeared to lunge and bolt forwards towards the doors.

"When the male was showing no signs of complying I feared for his safety. I thought a different tactical operation would be used on him.

"My adrenalin levels had gone through the roof. I was obviously anxious and frightened.

"I felt I had to do something. That's why I drew my firearm and put my cap on. It helped me stay calm.

"I was obviously very shaken by what I had seen unfold in front of me."

Share this article

Send this article to a friend »

• Del.icio.us
• Digg
• Reddit
• Facebook
• StumbleUpon

What are these?