The “Notting Hill Carnival” is the largest street festival in Europe, attracting millions of participants every year. According to the London Police Federation, there were a total of 8 stabbing incidents during the last carnival, with the victims aged between 18 and 40. Among them, a 29-year-old victim was in critical condition, and a 19-year-old victim was in serious but stable condition; the other six victims were not in life-threatening danger.
Videos and photos from the scene showed a man armed with a large machete attacking people, resulting in serious injuries to a 29-year-old man. After the crowds dispersed, nearly 300 tons of garbage were left behind, including canisters filled with nitrous oxide.
The Notting Hill Carnival has seen outbreaks of violence for two consecutive years. The organizers condemned all acts of violence but also stated that such incidents are common in British society, saying “this is truly tragic.”
Additionally, the police arrested 275 people during last year’s event, with 110 people arrested on the 27th and 165 on the 28th. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Adelekan, who oversaw the police operation, said, “Regrettably, for the second year in a row, the carnival night saw serious violent incidents.” Adelekan stated that the cultural importance of the Notting Hill Carnival to London is unquestionable, and most people who come here will have a positive experience. However, “we cannot ignore the knife attacks, sexual assaults, and police assaults that we have witnessed.” He also said, “As we do after any major operation, we will review the events of the past two days and thoroughly consider the changes that may need to be made in the coming years.”
This year’s street carnival is still fraught with danger, with potential threats such as the UK’s bankruptcy, the Russia-Ukraine war, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the U.S. elections, and the prevalence of LGBT issues. What kind of farce this year’s London Carnival might bring is something we will have to wait and see.