The Notting Hill Carnival in West London has been marred by violence, with four individuals injured, including a woman in critical condition after a stabbing. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the 32-year-old woman was one of three people stabbed on Sunday. A 29-year-old man is in hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, and authorities are awaiting an update on the condition of a 24-year-old man who was also injured.
Arrests and Police Response
Police have made 90 arrests during the carnival, with 18 of those for possessing offensive weapons. Authorities reported that 15 officers have been assaulted throughout the event. In response to the violence, a Section 60 order was issued, allowing officers to demand the removal of face coverings used to conceal identities, with those refusing facing arrest. Around 7,000 officers are on duty for the bank holiday weekend, reflecting a significant increase in policing presence aimed at maintaining safety.
Carnival Overview
The Notting Hill Carnival, which began in the 1960s to celebrate London’s diverse communities, draws around a million people annually. The event, known for its vibrant display of Caribbean culture, features a parade with colorfully costumed performers, dance, and music. The carnival started with Children and Families Day on Sunday, and the main procession, known for its lively atmosphere, is scheduled for Monday.
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Organizational Response
Matthew Phillip, chief executive of the Notting Hill Carnival, highlighted the event’s purpose of fostering inclusivity and social cohesion. He noted that recent incidents of violence, including the Southport stabbings, underscore the importance of the carnival’s mission to unite diverse communities.
Recent Issues
In the past two years, the carnival has seen over 500 arrests and 15 stabbings, including one fatal incident. Additionally, more than 125 assaults on police officers have been reported.
As the carnival continues, the community remains hopeful that the event will proceed with the celebration of Caribbean heritage while addressing the challenges of safety and security.