Hunt for ‘group of men’ after cop ‘grinded’ on at Notting Hill Carnival
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Two female cops were reportedly sexually assaulted at Notting Hill Carnival this weekend, prompting a hunt for a "group of men".
One of the women was reportedly kissed non-consensually, prompting the arrest of Florin Matei, 46, who now awaits trial at Westminster Magistrates' Court on September 19 after being charged with sexual assault.
In another incident, a second police officer was "surrounded by a group of men" who "grinded against her".
The Met Police said: "We are aware of two incidents where female officers were sexually assaulted.
"We recognise the impact such offences can have and we will provide both officers with the support they need. Neither officer was physically injured."
The news comes following criticism by Met Police Federation chief Ken Marsh of some carnival-goers, who he dubbed "disgusting" after an officer was sexually assaulted.
He said on LBC: "A colleague was sexually assaulted by numerous males during the carnival. My thoughts go out to that individual right now."
Notting Hill Carnival finally returned to the streets of the capital after a painful three-year absence last week, with revellers enjoying three days of partying, music and food in West London.
But with the return of the festival came a slew of tragic incidents in addition to the sexually assaults, including the death of dad-to-be Takayo Nembhard.
The rapper, also known as TKorStretch, was brutally stabbed to death in front of hundreds of partygoers on Monday (August 29), the last day of the festival, becoming the first person to be killed at the carnival in 22 years.
His heartbroken girlfriend wrote: "Takayo my sweet beautiful boy. All I can ask is why over and over again. You were the most kind-hearted, loving, funny and caring person.
"I’m sat here with sore eyes and a heavy heart as I’ve cried consistently for the last 12 hours while carrying your unborn son.
"I will remind him daily about how great you were as a son, brother, boyfriend and friend too!
"The love I have for you will never stop and I will honour your name every day."
- Festivals
- Police
- Crime
- MET Police
- Westminster
- London
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