The Metropolitan Police has launched an investigation into six stabbings that occurred following the Arsenal Champions Parade in London.
In total, 24 individuals were detained after more than 500 police officers, along with specialized search and drone teams, were deployed at the event on Sunday.
Officers expressed gratitude to the majority of attendees for “celebrating responsibly”, but noted that investigations are ongoing.
An estimated one million Arsenal fans gathered along the route leading to the Emirates Stadium in Islington for the festivities, celebrating the club’s first Premier League title in 22 years.
Among the arrests were 10 individuals suspected of assaulting police officers, which resulted in one officer sustaining a cut to the hand while another was struck by a thrown object.
Up to a million Arsenal fans lined the route for Sunday’s celebrations (PA)
Three individuals were arrested on charges of sexual assault, while another was taken into custody for grievous bodily harm. All those arrested were held in custody.
Damage to four police vans, including broken lights and dents, was reported, although no arrests were made in relation to this damage.
The Met Police reported they dealt with six stabbings that occurred “on the parade footprint” after most of the attendees had left in the evening.
Most victims had non-life-threatening injuries, however, one man in his twenties was transported to the hospital in critical condition around 8:30 PM but is now reported to be stable.
A Section 60 order was enacted in the area overnight to help prevent additional offenses and provide officers with enhanced stop and search powers.
The London Fire Brigade also indicated that its crews rescued approximately 75 individuals trapped in various elevated positions during the event, advising fans against climbing onto rooftops.
Arsenal fans made their way towards King’s Cross station following a victory parade to celebrate their club winning the Premier League title (PA)
Commander Stuart Bell, who led the Metropolitan Police’s public order operations over the weekend, stated: “I would like to thank the vast majority of the hundreds of thousands of Arsenal supporters who attended the day to celebrate safely and responsibly.
“There was a police presence along the route throughout the event, working alongside organizers and stewarding teams.
“However, we had made it clear that violence and other criminal activities would not be tolerated. Unfortunately, there were instances of anti-social behavior and incidents necessitating police intervention, including assaults on officers.
“As the evening progressed and crowds dispersed, further violence occurred, including gang-related incidents.
“Officers promptly responded to all reports of stabbings, and investigations are currently underway.”
Chief Superintendent Jason Stewart, who oversees policing in Islington, remarked: “This event held significant importance for our community and Arsenal supporters at large. We collaborated closely with the local authorities and various partners in planning for the event and managing it throughout the day.
“Our officers are resuming patrols today to provide visible reassurance, and our investigative teams are diligently working to identify the offenders and bring them to justice. We stand united with our local communities against violence.”