"If the behaviour of the Notting Hill Carnival was replicated at football matches or any other event it would be banned," he told The Telegraph. This stark comparison highlights the perceived leniency shown towards the Carnival, suggesting that actions—such as openly smoking drugs and abusing officers—would not be tolerated elsewhere. The former inspector argues that the police's hesitance to intervene stems from fears of accusations of racism, creating a double standard in law enforcement.
"Police officers are told to only arrest revelers in the most extreme circumstances, whatever that is." This comment suggests a troubling lack of clarity and decisiveness in policing, raising concerns about officer safety and the overall enforcement of laws during events like the Notting Hill Carnival. It emphasizes the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining order in a climate perceived as politically sensitive.
Commander Charmain Brenyah stated, "Officers will be maintaining a vigilant presence in and around the carnival in an effort to identify and intervene against anyone intent on committing violence... They will use their search powers where there are grounds to do so in order to take weapons off the streets." This underscores Scotland Yard's commitment to acting against violence, but also prompts questions about how effectively they will address drug use and other illegal behavior.
Despite the claims of two-tier policing made by former inspector Mike Neville, Scotland Yard insists that it will intervene against any violence. This tension illustrates the complex dynamics between crime prevention at large gatherings and the socio-political context in which policing occurs, raising concerns about the effectiveness and fairness of law enforcement practices.
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