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The Metropolitan Police will deploy live facial recognition (LFR) technology on the approach routes to this year’s Notting Hill Carnival as part of efforts to prevent serious crime and keep the event safe.
While LFR will not be used within the boundaries of the Carnival itself, the system will scan individuals approaching the event to identify those who pose a risk to public safety. The watchlist will include people wanted on the Police National Computer, missing persons—particularly young people at risk of exploitation—and individuals subject to sexual harm prevention orders.
So far in 2025, the Met has carried out 111 LFR deployments, resulting in 512 arrests. Over the August Bank Holiday weekend, officers will use the technology to help identify and intercept suspects before they reach the crowded streets of Notting Hill.
LFR works by comparing live footage of people passing cameras against a bespoke watchlist. If a match is detected, an officer reviews the alert, conducts further checks, and decides whether to engage the individual. An alert does not automatically lead to arrest, and if a passer-by is not on the watchlist, their data is deleted immediately and permanently.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Matt Ward, who is leading the policing operation, said targeting dangerous individuals before they arrive is key to preventing knife crime and violence against women and girls.
“The best way to prevent serious crime at Carnival, including violence and sexual offending, is to intervene early—before the harm is done,” said Ward. “Live facial recognition will help us do just that, identifying the small number of dangerous individuals we know pose a threat to others.”
Around 7,000 officers and staff will be deployed daily across the weekend. In addition to LFR, the Met will use screening arches, stop and search, and pre-event arrests of suspects linked to violence or weapons.
Ward added: “We know the overwhelming majority come to enjoy Carnival peacefully. But where we identify people who are planning to commit serious offences or exploit the event to harm others, we will act—and act early.”
Police are also urging the public to share information—anonymously if necessary—via Crimestoppers (0800 555 111 / crimestoppers-uk.org). The charity guarantees anonymity and is independent from the police.
“If you know someone who may be planning violence, or being drawn into crime, now is the time to speak up,” Ward said. “You could be preventing a tragedy.”
For a deeper dive into this transformative technology, read Catherine Levin’s piece on 10 things to know about Live Facial Recognition technology.
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