A THURROCK police officer who is known to many across the borough has shared his shock and horror at the killing of a former colleague in London.

Sgt Ben Forbes is the team leader for Thurrock's town centre teams and has become a familiar face in the area.

Before joining the Essex force he worked in London - at one point with Sgt Matiu Ratana, 54, who died in hospital on Friday after being shot in Croydon as a handcuffed suspect was being taken into custody.

Sgt Fornbes says: "I worked with Matt previously in public order and community engagement work.

"What a legend and again, someone who always put himself last in order to serve London. This news is heartbreaking"

Sgt Ratana, who was originally from New Zealand, joined the London force in 1991.

Met Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick described Sgt Ratana as a 'talented police officer'.

"He was 'big in stature, big in heart, friendly, capable, a lovely man and highly respected by his colleagues', and leaves behind a partner and adult son", she said.