Woman critical after Notting Hill Carnival stabbing

A 32-year-old woman is in critical condition in hospital after being one of three individuals stabbed at Notting Hill Carnival in west London. The incident occurred today, tarnishing what is typically considered the event’s ‘family day’.

Two men were also injured in separate stabbing incidents. A 29-year-old man is hospitalised with non-life-threatening injuries, while the condition of a 24-year-old man remains unknown.

The event witnessed significant violence, with 15 police officers assaulted, although none of them sustained serious injuries. Authorities arrested 90 individuals for various offences, including sexual and drug-related crimes. Officers also confiscated 18 offensive weapons, including knives, throughout the day.

Three stabbed including woman ‘in life-threatening condition’ during Notting Hill Carnival https://t.co/xsWxCOnDjn pic.twitter.com/MFfmchUsX5

— Daily Mail Online (@MailOnline) August 25, 2024

The Metropolitan Police issued a statement highlighting the scale of the event, noting that hundreds of thousands attended the carnival. Officers were deployed as part of a meticulously planned policing operation aimed at ensuring public safety. “Regrettably, a minority came to commit crime and engage in violence,” the statement read.

Additional measures were authorised to give police greater powers to stop and search attendees in efforts to prevent further violence. A Section 60 order was enforced from 6.05pm to 2am in the carnival area.

In anticipation of potential violence, the police force deployed 9,000 officers to manage the large crowds. Last year saw eight stabbings and 275 arrests during the carnival. This year, with another day of festivities still to come, there have already been three stabbings and 90 arrests.

A police spokesperson described the carnival as one of the world’s most significant street festivals, attracting around a million people each year. However, dense crowds and a history of criminal activity make it a challenging event to police. Commander Charmain Brenyah highlighted past difficulties, noting over 500 arrests, 15 stabbings—including one fatal—and more than 125 police officers assaulted over the last two years. She emphasised the necessity of a robust police presence at the event.

The Notting Hill Carnival, a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture, sees the streets awash with colours and sounds. The festivities, which always take place over the August bank holiday weekend, began in earnest on Sunday with the main parade. A three-and-a-half-mile march wound through much of W10, from near Westbourne Park Tube Station to Ladbroke Grove.

Thousands of performers showcased their talents, with dazzling costumes, steel bands, sound systems, and dancers captivating the crowds. Today, designated as the children-friendly day, featured a special parade where children danced through the streets covered in brightly coloured paints and powders, known as ‘dutty mas’.

The free event, expected to attract around two million attendees over the weekend, is supported by 40,000 volunteers. Notting Hill Carnival CEO Matthew Phillip praised the event as a testament to unity and the celebration of shared humanity. He highlighted the significant contributions of immigrants, from the Windrush generation to the present, to the UK’s cultural and economic landscape.

Phillip also noted that Notting Hill Carnival was initially created to combat racial tensions and celebrate Caribbean heritage. It has since evolved into a cherished national institution, drawing millions of visitors from around the world. “It stands as a powerful reminder of how diversity strengthens our society and fuels our creativity,” he added.