A 32-year-old woman is in critical condition in hospital after being stabbed at the Notting Hill Carnival, according to the Metropolitan Police.
In addition to the woman, a 29-year-old man is also in hospital with non-life-threatening injuries from a stabbing, while a 24-year-old man was also stabbed, but his condition is still unknown.
Police reported that fifteen officers were assaulted during the event, although none sustained serious injuries. On Sunday, 90 arrests were made by the police.
A spokesperson from the police stated that while hundreds of thousands of people attended the carnival to enjoy the festivities, there was a minority who came to commit crimes and engage in violence.
Arrests were made for various alleged crimes including assault on an emergency worker, assault, possession with intent to supply drugs, sexual offences, and robbery. Suspects were also arrested for drug possession, theft, possession of nitrous oxide, and public order offences.
The police had been granted greater search powers to prevent further violence after a stabbing incident and the recovery of knives. These powers also allowed officers to demand the removal of face coverings used to conceal identities, with refusal resulting in arrest.
Notting Hill Carnival, billed as Europe’s largest street party and the greatest community-led event on the planet, is expected to attract around a million people over the bank holiday weekend. Approximately 7,000 officers were on duty for the celebrations.
The annual event, celebrating Caribbean heritage, arts, and culture, has been running for over 50 years. The main parade, scheduled for Monday, is described by organisers as the highlight of the carnival with a festive atmosphere.
Earlier on Sunday, the streets of west London were filled with colour, costumes, dancing, and music as thousands of revellers enjoyed the festivities. During the Children and Families’ Day, young participants danced along the parade route in vibrant and intricate costumes.
