Face-scan cameras to spot Carnival criminals

A NEW facial recognition system to identify wanted offenders will be in operation at the Notting Hill Carnival this weekend to help catch criminals.

The technology, introduced for the first time by Scotland Yard, will use cameras to scan the faces of carnivalgoers and flag up matches with a database of images of people who are banned from the event, as well as wanted individuals who might attend to commit offences.

In addition, highly-skilled officers dubbed “super-recognisers”, who can recall offenders’ faces after seeing them briefly in person or on file, will be monitoring the event from a CCTV control room. They will help spot anyone who has bail conditions banning them from attending the event, where two million people are expected.

The Met have made 215 arrests this week as part of an operation to “thwart and disrupt” troublemakers before the t wo-day carnival, and homes were raided a s more than 200 s e a rc h warrants were executed.

Most arrests have been for drugrelated offences, with heroin, crack cocaine and cannabis seized. Officers also confiscated knives and machetes, along with six firearms and 50 rounds of ammunition.

S uper i nt e ndent Robyn Wil l i a ms appealed to the public ahead of the carnival on Sunday and bank holiday Monday, saying: “If you know of anyone who is planning to use this exciting and vibrant event as a cover for crime or violence then let us know and help us keep it safe for you.”

Mayor Sadiq Khan said there will be record numbers of officers policing the event and added: “It’s really important people feel safe going to Carnival.” Last year there were over 400 arrests.