The Metropolitan Police have voiced their exasperation with ongoing violence after four people were stabbed during this year's event, reports The Telegraph.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan, who oversaw the policing operation, expressed his frustration, stating, "We are tired of seeing crime scenes at Carnival." He emphasized that Sunday was supposed to be a "family day" suitable for all ages, but instead was marred by "unacceptable violence." This annual celebration of Caribbean heritage, arts, and culture has been running for over 50 years.
The incident involving the mother was particularly distressing. "One of those in hospital, a 32-year-old woman whose condition remains critical, was at Carnival with her young child," Adelekan noted.
Notting Hill Carnival 2024 Crime Statistics (Over 3 Days):
- Arrests: 334
- Violent Incidents:
- Stabbings: 5
- Acid attack: 1
- Rapes: 8
- Robberies: 8
- Violent attacks: 56- Assaults on Services:
- Police officers assaulted: 35
- Emergency service personnel… pic.twitter.com/Xo8mfjKpZj— Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) August 27, 2024
In addition to the stabbings, there were two incidents of slash wounds and one involving a corrosive substance. By Monday night, 230 arrests had been made for various offenses, including sexual crimes, assaults on emergency workers, theft, and drug-related charges.
The police implemented a Section 60 order from Sunday evening until early Monday morning, granting officers additional powers to stop and search individuals in the area. This measure also allowed them to demand the removal of face coverings used to conceal identities.
You are JOKING. A month ago Tommy Robinsons demonstration in London (which saw zero arrests) was branded a "far right" gathering, but Notting Hill Carnival - which has had 90 arrests, 3 stabbings, 6 sexual assaults, etc is branded a 'fantastic celebration'?#TwoTierKhan pic.twitter.com/VyaNyond3i
— James Harvey (@JamesHarvey2503) August 26, 2024
Despite the incidents, the carnival, billed as "the greatest community-led event on the planet" by organizers, saw around a million attendees over the Bank Holiday weekend. Approximately 7,000 officers were deployed to oversee the celebrations.
Adelekan appealed to the public for assistance, stating, "It is the responsibility of all who value this event, who want to see it as the celebration it should be, to speak out and speak up about the violence that continues to overshadow it."
