Police made 169 arrests on the first day of London's Notting Hill Carnival, with individuals detained for offenses including possession of weapons, drugs, and sexual offenses. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the total number of arrests as of 7:45 p.m. on Sunday, with most occurring within the carnival's perimeter. Officers responded to two knife assaults during the event, described as Europe's biggest street party, one involving a slashing to the leg and another to the hand. Neither assault resulted in life-altering or life-threatening injuries.
An estimated two million revelers are expected to attend the carnival, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary with live music, parades, street food, and sound stages. The Met Police deployed over 7,000 officers for the bank holiday weekend event. Dedicated points were established to hold arrested individuals before they were transported to police stations. One officer noted that arrests were being made for serious crimes such as knife possession, sexual assault, and upskirting. Approximately 25 people were detained in one tent used for serious offenses over the course of the day.
Concerns remain regarding the potential for gang-related violence, as rival gang members may be present at the event. In comparison to previous years, the Met Police reported 528 arrests in 2025, including 167 for drug offenses, 50 for offensive weapons, 21 for sexual offenses, four for violence with injury, and 49 for other violent offenses. In 2024, there were eight stabbings, including one murder, a figure that was matched in 2023, and seven in 2022, also including one murder.
Despite the incidents, the Met Police stated that the mood at the carnival has been "overwhelmingly positive and celebratory." Commander Claire Smart, overseeing the policing operation, acknowledged the significant number of arrests and interventions but highlighted a welcome reduction in serious violence compared to previous years, attributing this to a proactive approach and collaboration with carnival organizers. Officers will continue to be deployed throughout the event to ensure the safe dispersal of crowds and to address the actions of a minority intent on disrupting the celebration.