LONDON: Eight people were stabbed and police arrested hundreds during last weekend’s Notting Hill Carnival, one of the world’s largest and most vibrant street festivals held annually in west London.
The annual event, which celebrates British Afro-Caribbean culture, was plagued by a series of violent incidents despite the presence of around 7,000 police officers.
On the final day of the carnival, five people were stabbed, adding to the three stabbings that occurred on Sunday. Among the victims, three were reported to be in life-threatening condition. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the violence resulted in a substantial increase in arrests and injuries compared to previous years.
In total, officers made at least 230 arrests on Monday alone, including 49 for possession of offensive weapons. This was in addition to several arrests made the previous day. Authorities also seized three firearms and reported that 35 officers sustained injuries during the event. The policing figures are consistent with last year’s statistics, which saw 10 stabbings and approximately 300 arrests.
Despite the violence, the carnival, which attracts approximately one million people each August bank holiday weekend, was characterized by its usual festive atmosphere. The streets of Notting Hill and surrounding areas were filled with colorful costumes, music, and dancing, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Afro-Caribbean community.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan expressed frustration over the recurring issues of violence at the carnival. He noted that the police narrowly avoided a fatality when a woman attending with her child was among those stabbed. Adelekan urged attendees to report any crimes they witness.
The Notting Hill Carnival has deep cultural roots, tracing back to the 1950s when it began as a celebration of Afro-Caribbean identity following the influx of immigrants from former British colonies after World War II. The event features an array of performances, including steel bands, feathered dancers, and booming sound systems, and serves as a vibrant showcase of British multiculturalism.
