The Met Police has issued a clear warning to criminals to not even bother coming to Notting Hill Carnival this bank holiday.
Police have gone on the defensive in the week before Europe’s biggest street party, arresting 155 people on Tuesday alone in a bid to prevent violence and crime at Carnival.
Superintendent Robyn Williams, the Met’s Carnival spokeswoman, has warned criminals the police and event organisers have worked closely to ensure the event is a safe environment for more than a million people to come and enjoy themselves .
Her announcement comes just the day after a teenager was stabbed in the leg at an illegal pre-Notting Hill Carnival rave in Finsbury Park in the early hours of yesterday morning (August 21), where a police officer was also taken to A&E with facial injuries.
More than 7,000 police will be patrolling Carnival each day and dedicated teams of experienced officers will be deployed to stop potential trouble makers from even getting to the Carnival area.
Superintendent Williams, said: “The overwhelming majority of people do come to have a good time, but given the large numbers the event attracts, some see it as an opportunity to disrupt the event and commit crime.
“I want to say to those who want to come to cause trouble, do not come, you will be dealt with swiftly and robustly. The Met will do everything in its power to make it as hard as possible for you.”
Police ‘super recognisers’, who can remember hundreds of offenders’ faces, will be working to ensure criminals are stopped - these include many of the 155 arrested for gang crime, drugs and firearms on Tuesday who are banned from the event.
Talking about personal safety, Superintendent Williams warned Carnival-goers to look after their belongings, in particular mobile phones.
“Don’t bring too much cash or wear expensive jewellery," she said. "On arrival at Carnival, go with the flow of the crowd, and move along the route. Make sure you discuss with friends and family a location to meet in case you get separated.
“Our officers are there to help. Sometimes they may ask you to walk a longer route - this is for safety reasons,” she added.
If you know of anyone planning to use Carnival as a cover for crime or violence call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 to let police know.
For updates throughout Sunday 24 and Monday 25 follow @MetPoliceEvents on twitter.
