Family of police officer shot dead in Croydon pay tribute to ‘fearless’ officer

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The family of police officer Matt Ratana who was shot dead in south London on Friday have paid tribute to him.

His cousin Adrian Rurawhe, a Labour MP in his native New Zealand, said the 54-year-old was "really proud to be a police officer".

He also described Matt as a "fearless" man who was "proud to be a Māori from New Zealand".

Adrian added: "Matt really loved his job. He knew what he had signed up and the risks involved. He was never afraid but he was not reckless either.

"He would have followed every correct procedure in the way he carried out his job. He wasn't a big risk-taker, but he wasn't afraid to challenge the norm."

Adrian went on: "He had a leadership role within the whānau and him and I often spoke about our responsibilities within our whānau. He was really proud to be from Ratana."

"He was a really good sportsman, played tennis rugby, did everything."

Matt leaves behind a full brother, James, eight half-siblings, a wife and an adult son.

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  Croydon police officer shot dead at south London station named as Matt Ratana

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• Shooting
• Family
• London
• MET Police

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