Between two and three kilograms of drugs seized in Lewisham. Pic: Metropolitan Police
Drugs destined for the Notting Hill Carnival with an estimated street value of £300,000 were seized by Lewisham Police on Sunday.
Between three and four kilograms of what is suspected to be crack cocaine was found in a suitcase in the basement of a flat on Broadfield Road, during a raid conducted by police at 10.30am.
Four people have been arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of drugs – a man and a woman aged in their mid 30s, a 19-year-old man and a man aged 51 years old.
Superintendent Robyn Williams, Metropolitan Police spokesperson for Notting Hill Carnival, said: “These arrests show that we are committed to tackling those who set out with the intention of committing crime at Carnival.”
This year’s event saw a total of 152 arrests over the weekend. Other crimes reported from Sunday and Monday included 43 arrests on account of public order, 23 for possession of an offensive weapon and four for sexual offences.
Police were particularly concerned about the rising number of stabbings.
Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe, Metropolitan Police Service Commissioner said: “Although early indications are that reported crime is down at this year’s Notting Hill Carnival, I am concerned by the number of stabbings over the weekend.
“Stabbings are up on last year, and in some cases these are just centimetres from being a murder. Each will be thoroughly investigated and we will do everything possible to ensure those who brought trouble to Carnival are placed before the courts.
“Our proactive operations in the days leading up to Carnival and the weekend itself were a great success and meant we were able to stop many crimes before they happened.
“Two of my officers were injured during an arrest yesterday and this shows the risks they must take. I would like to thank all the officers and support staff for their hard work in the most difficult of weather conditions. Their commitment is a major factor in ensuring the Carnival is a safe and enjoyable event for the vast majority of those attending.”
