Metropolitan police commander Cressida Dick said Sgt Matiu Ratana was known as a 'big guy' with a 'big heart' who was respected by colleagues and the suspects he dealt with in custody. 'His service will never be forgotten,' she added. 'It is a really distinguished service from a lovely, much respected police officer.'
The 54-year-old officer, known as Matt, had served with the Metropolitan police for nearly 30 years. He was killed after a suspect opened fire at Croydon custody centre in south London in the early hours of Friday.
Croydon police shooting: officer named as Matiu Ratana
Suspect in Croydon police shooting had hands cuffed behind his back