Cautious mood at Notting Hill carnival after riots
Police warn would-be troublemakers “do not come” to the Notting Hill carnival as extra police are deployed to prevent repeat scenes of the London riots. More than 30 people were arrested on day one.
The Metropolitan Police made 33 arrests on the first day of the carnival after putting in place a “robust” police plan to head off trouble following the street chaos witnessed during the London riots.
Eleven of the arrests are drug-related, six for assault, five for theft and four people were detained over public order offences.
A few days ago Scotland Yard staged a series of dawn swoops during pre-emptive strikes to avoid the world-famous party being hit by unrest.
A total of 40 suspects were arrested in raids across the capital during preparations for the force’s biggest ever policing presence at the event.
Met Commander Steve Rodhouse said “the look and feel of this year’s Carnival and our policing operation will not change” but extra officers will be patrolling the streets of west London.
There were 5,500 officers on duty on Sunday and 6,500 police will patrolling on Monday. There are over 4,000 additional officers on duty across London.
Commander Rodhouse added: “We want to say to those who want to come to corrupt this magnificent event you are not welcome.
“Please do not come. The Met will do everything in its power to make it as hard as possible for you.”