Notting Hill Carnival London Sees 140 Arrests Amid One Million Attendees

The Notting Hill Carnival, Europe's largest street party celebrating Caribbean culture, took place in west London over the summer bank holiday weekend, attracting up to a million attendees. The festivities began with the J’ouvert celebration, featuring paint and powder-covered revelers, and continued with music, dancing, and colorful costumes. Despite the vibrant atmosphere and a three-minute silence honoring victims of past tragedies, the Metropolitan Police reported 140 arrests on the first day, a 40% increase from last year, including 15 for assaults on police, four for sexual offenses, and numerous drug- and weapon-related charges. The police deployed live facial recognition technology, which contributed to 13 arrests on the event's approaches, alongside knife arches and proactive policing efforts. Authorities emphasized ongoing support for assaulted officers and maintained a significant police presence throughout the carnival to ensure safety. Community leaders highlighted the carnival's importance in celebrating Caribbean heritage and contributions to the local area.