Ayobamiji Komolafe 
No fewer than eight person has been confirmed dead and hundreds of individuals arrested at the world’s largest street festivals, Notting Hill Carnival which ended in violence in west London.
The festival, a three-day celebration of British Afro-Caribbean culture, drew massive crowds but was marred by a series of violent incidents that raised concerns over safety at the event.
According to the Metropolitan Police, five people were stabbed on the final day of the carnival, following three similar incidents on Sunday.
In total, three of the victims sustained life-threatening injuries. Among the victims was a woman who had attended the event with her child, narrowly escaping death after a brutal stabbing.
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Despite the colourful and joyous nature of the carnival, violence has become a recurring issue, with last year seeing similar stabbings and around 300 arrests.
The police arrested at least 230 individuals on Monday alone, bringing the total number of arrests over the weekend to more than 300.
Their offenses included possession of offensive weapons, public disorder, drug-related crimes, and assaults on police officers.
In total, 49 people were arrested for carrying weapons, and three firearms were seized.
Additionally, 35 police officers were injured while trying to maintain order during the festival.
Despite the ongoing security challenges, hundreds of thousands of people packed the streets of west London, filling the Notting Hill neighborhood with vibrant costumes, dancing, music, and the sound of steel drums.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan of the Metropolitan Police expressed frustration, stating, “I am tired of saying the same words every year.”
He also lamented the violent episodes and stressed that a fatality was narrowly avoided.
He urged carnival-goers to report any crimes they witness, as public cooperation is essential for keeping the event safe.
While many revelers were able to enjoy the festivities peacefully, the repeated incidents of knife crime and violence have continued to overshadow what should be a celebration of culture and unity.
Around 7,000 officers were deployed over the weekend to manage the large crowds and prevent further incidents, but the festival has faced increasing scrutiny in recent years due to safety concerns.
Despite the issues, the Notting Hill Carnival remains a vibrant celebration of British Afro-Caribbean culture, featuring feathered dancers, elaborate costumes, steel bands, and thundering sound systems.
The annual event, held during the August bank holiday weekend, is one of London’s most anticipated cultural celebrations and is rooted in the 1950s, following a surge in immigration from former British colonies after World War II.
