Wednesday 31 August 2011



Mh mgeni rashi Balozi Mwanaidi Maajar akiwa na waumini katika futari iliyoandaliwa na jumuiya ya Kiislamu Tanzanian Muslim Community, kwenye ukumbi wa Hillandale Local Park, New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring Maryland Nchini Marekani.
























Sunday 28 August 2011





Ayoub mzee poses besides thrust SSc.ThrustSSC is the most powerful, most extraordinary car ever to be designed to attack the Land Speed Record, and as the SSC (SuperSonic Car) in the name indicates, it is also one of the first with genuine potential to breach the Sound Barrier.

Where Thrust2 used a 17,000 pound thrust Rolls-Royce Avon 302 engine from a Lightning fighter, ThrustSSC is the first car to use not one, but two turbojets. These will initially be Rolls-Royce Spey 202s from the Phantom fighter, each producing 20,000 pounds of thrust. Richard Noble has acquired two of them, but also has two even more powerful 205 units (25,000lb of thrust) for use when ThrustSSC has proved itself in transonic testing. ThrustSSC thus has the power of 1000 Ford Escorts, or 145 Formula One cars...

It will weighs 10 tonnes, and initial performance estimates suggest it will accelerate from standstill to 100mph (161kph) in four seconds or 0-600mph (1000kph) in 16 seconds. Within five miles (8 km) it will then reach its maximum speed of 850 mph within half a minute.


Key Components
Not all the components can be individually identified on the 'Clickable Car', without zooming in to a very high resolution. For example, the fire system is comprised of many relatively small components spread throughout the car. To cater for this, we've added the list of articles below for you to read, instead of trying to put them on the cutaway picture:

Aerodynamics - Thoughts of Ron Ayers, ThrustSSC's Aerodynamicist, on the shape of the car
Fire System - Jeremy Bliss, ThrustSSC Vehicle Systems, on the systems for detecting and extinguishing fires
Communication System - Thrust SSC's Communications and Video Manager, Adam Northcote-Wright, on the systems for team communication in the desert








Thrust SSC - The Overall Design
"On the face of it, the World Land Speed Record might seem simple: obtain the most powerful engine available to you, assemble a team of specialists prepared to take career risks, build the smallest practical car and then ferry the whole outfit to a remote desert track 6,000 miles from home...and have a go."









UN Sanctions Committee on Libya


Special Briefing
Senior Administration Official
Administration OfficialVia Teleconference

August 25, 2011


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


MS. FULTON: Okay. Thank you, and thanks, everybody, for joining us on such short notice. With the recent action in the UN to release frozen Libyan funds, we thought it would be useful to have some of our senior State Department officials speak with you about that action and take – just elaborate on it a little bit more.

This call will be conducted on background with attribution to Senior Administration Officials, but for the purposes of your records, we have speaking today [Senior Administration Officials]. So at this time, I’m going to turn it over to Senior Administration Official Number One, and we will take your questions following a short readout.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Thanks very much, Heide. Welcome, everybody. Sorry to keep you waiting. As you know, the UN Sanctions Committee about an hour and a half ago did approve the U.S. request to unfreeze 1.5 billion in U.S.-held Libyan frozen assets. We spoke earlier today on the record about the three baskets of 500 million each that that funding will be appropriated under. We can talk more about that afterwards if you’d like. But we wanted to give you a little bit of the feeling of how this diplomacy went over the last few weeks.

So first, just to say that before we presented this proposal to the UN Sanctions Committee, we spent a number of weeks, primarily Chris Stevens in Benghazi, but also supported by Assistant Secretary Feltman, Ambassador Cretz, and the Secretary herself in her meetings with the TNC, working with the TNC to refine their proposal, to understand their needs, and to build in the kinds of assurances that we needed and we knew that other members of the sanctions committee were going to need with regard to a commitment that this money and assurances that this money would only be used for humanitarian and civilian needs, that there would be no ability or desire to use it for military or lethal purposes, that it would be completely transparent to everyone, including in the international community, how this money was going to be spent, and to bundle it in the baskets that you saw us present earlier today from the podium.

So by the time we got to the sanctions committee to formally present the proposal on August 8th, we had worked it through with the TNC, they had sent to the Secretary a letter in writing outlining all of the plans for the money and the baskets and the plans that we talked about today. We were able to then present that to the sanctions committee members. There were, as you can imagine, lots of questions, even from our close allies at the beginning who had to work through their own understanding of how we came to the proposal, how the TNC would use the money to reassure themselves of the transparencies.

About a week and a half ago, we were good to go except for a few holdouts. There has been some reporting on who they were. The remaining concerns generally either had to do with reservations that sanctions committee members had with regard to the standing of the TNC – not all of the sanctions committee members had taken the steps that we had already taken to recognize the TNC as a legitimate governing authority in Libya – and also to reassure themselves that the vehicle that we were trying to use under the sanctions committee rules, the extraordinary exemptions, was appropriate in this circumstance. There were some countries that were willing to do some of the humanitarian, but not the fuel, et cetera.

The Secretary swung into action, Assistant Secretaries Feltman, Blake, others were called on to support the work that Susan Rice and the rest of the U.S. team in New York were doing with delegations to help explain and reinforce and make clear that we felt the need was urgent, that the TNC had to start paying its bills, had to start providing for its own people, not only to establish its legitimacy and bona fides, but also to establish its track record as a clean, democratic, transparent organization.

Came down to this week; we had one remaining holdout, which was South Africa. The Secretary called Foreign Minister Mashabane yesterday and stressed the urgency, stressed the transparencies, the assurances that we had had from the TNC, and at the same time, as you know, we made clear both in New York and in capitals that if sanctions committee members were not prepared to support this use of the extraordinary exemption, that we would take the question to the UN Security Council. And we participated in the drafting of a resolution, got it in final, and had that ready to go.

It was at about – what, [Senior Administration Official Two], 3:00 this afternoon that we finally heard from the South – the initial South African position was that they would support some of the money, the humanitarian’s first basket but not the rest. But I think a combination of the fact of the Secretary’s personal pressure, the fact that they had a better understanding through her diplomacy and diplomacy in New York of how the money was going to be used, and appeals that other countries made to them, including countries in their region and that the TNC made personally, they came off the fence and they obviously didn’t want to see the methodology of the sanctions committee undercut. So that is how we get to today’s happy news, and we can go back, if it’s of interest to you, to the three baskets, but I did describe them today during the briefing.

Why don’t we go – why don’t we pause there and go to your questions.

OPERATOR: If you have a question, please press *1 on your touchtone phone. Please unmute your phone and record your name at the prompt. That’s *1 if you have a question; *2 will withdraw your request.

Our first question comes from Josh Rogin. Go ahead, sir. Your line is open.

QUESTION: Thank you so much for doing the call. I understand that the TNC was removed from the text of the item and replaced with, quote-un-quote, “relevant authorities.” I also understand that your argument is that makes no difference, but if it makes no difference, why is that something that the South Africans wanted so badly?

Also, could you tell us what specific accountability and transparency measures will be applied to make sure that the TNC administers this money appropriately? And third, why do you call it the TNC when they seem to be calling themselves the NTC? Don’t they have the right to self-identify? Thank you.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Okay. Thanks, Josh. First, on your last point – We spoke to this yesterday from the podium – the TNC, interestingly, in its own documents and statements, refers to itself sometimes as the TNC and sometimes as the NTC. So we’ve chosen to stick with the TNC, which they – again, using first and since they seem to use both as they self-identify.

You are correct that the last compromise that was made in the sanctions committee approval was to delete an explicit reference to the TNC and swap it out with a reference to the relevant Libyan authorities. This helped South Africa because it has not explicitly recognized the TNC itself from a U.S. perspective, from the perspective of other partners on the committee. It doesn’t make a difference, and in fact, it’s slightly more flexible given the fact that we expect that in coming days and weeks, the TNC itself will transform into an interim governing authority in Libya and will change its name when it expands and does that in keeping with its own roadmap.

Did I miss anything there?

QUESTION: Yeah. What specific transparency and accountability measures will be in place to follow this money and ensure that the TNC or NTC is up – using it appropriately?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Well, as we discussed on the record earlier today from the podium, this money is allocated in three baskets. The first basket, to pay for UN agency support of $500 million. The second basket will pay existing fuel bills of the TNC and the Libyan people. And the third basket goes into the temporary financial mechanism to be drawn on for health, education, and social services.

In the first basket, humanitarian organization support, the money goes directly to the UN agencies who are providing the services. It doesn’t go through anybody’s hands other than the UN. In the second category, where we’re paying for the fuel, the vendor will be paid directly. And in the third category, the money is going into the mechanism that was created by the Contact Group, the temporary financial mechanism, which is managed with a steering board located in Doha. And the way it works is that the Libyans would come forward requesting repayment from their own money being held in the TFM for bills accrued in the categories of health, education, social sciences. So there is a review, there is a steering board, there is an ability to track the money.

QUESTION: Thank you.

MS. FULTON: Okay. Thank you. Operator, next question, please.

OPERATOR: Our next question comes from Joe Lauria of Wall Street Journal. Go ahead. Your line is open.

QUESTION: Yes, thank you. Hadn’t the U.S. already unilaterally frozen these funds from Libya before the Security Council passed its sanctions? And if so, why didn’t the U.S. unilaterally unfreeze them the way Italy apparently did today, the $500 million?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: It’s not clear that the money that the Italians unfroze was actually covered by UN Security Council 1970. There are various pots of money. Yes, we did unilaterally freeze assets before we got the Security Council resolution. Once we had the Security Council resolution, we wanted to work within the UN sanctions regime in order to unfreeze it if we possibly could.

You heard us say from the podium on the record earlier today that our first choice was to get the sanctions committee to release the money; if that was not possible, we wanted to do it still within the UN system, through the UN Security Council. And we believe that if we had had to go that route, the positive vote would have been overwhelming. And the third option would have been to do it unilaterally if we had to, but we didn’t get to that step.

QUESTION: Oh, so this was a matter of choice, then, not a legal obligation?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Correct.

QUESTION: It was a matter of choice to go through the – and that’s for political reasons, so the U.S. does not appear to be acting unilaterally in Libya the way they’ve been all the way from the beginning, the U.S., not wanting to appear to react unilaterally, wanting the Arab League and Security Council, for example, to authorize any kind of intervention. What were the reasons behind wanting the UN route to be taken?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: It is in U.S. interest for the UN Security Council – the UN Sanctions Committee to work. If you look at what we have done in the past in other parts of the world, if other countries start willy-nilly unfreezing money that the UN has put a blanket on, then the effort that we put into getting multilateral action to put sanctions in place isn’t worth very much.

So when the UN Sanctions Committee works, when UN sanctions work, they are very powerful. So it is in our interest to make that system work and to unwind that system as necessary within its own rules if we possibly can. And that was our preference for maintaining the integrity of the UN system, but we were prepared to act on our own if we couldn’t make that happen.

Let me see if [Senior Administration Official Two] has this – Briefer Number Two has anything he wants to add.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATON OFFICIAL TWO: The only thing I would add is that a number of countries have gone through this process, it’s been established. And I would just reinforce what my colleague said, that this is about doing it the most responsible – doing – unfreezing the assets in the most responsible way and in a timely way, which we think we’ve achieved.

MS. FULTON: Okay. Thank you. Operator, next question please.


OPERATOR: I am showing no further questions at this time.

MS. FULTON: Well --

OPERATOR: If --

MS. FULTON: Sorry.

OPERATOR: If you – I do show one coming through. Just a moment, please.

MS. FULTON: Okay. Thank you.

OPERATOR: Once again, if you do have a question, it’s *1 on your touchtone phone, and record your name at the prompt. One moment, please.

Our next question comes from Brad Klapper of AP. Go ahead. Your line is open.

QUESTION: Hi. I’m not too late, am I?

MS. FULTON: No. Go ahead, Brad.

QUESTION: Okay. I just wanted to know when the money would be available. That was one thing I didn’t quite understand exactly.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Okay. Briefer Number Two, can you speak to this?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL TWO: I would say we’re going to be moving out as quickly as possible, and the money will start to flow in the coming days. As we’ve described, there are three different baskets of money, and we expect that the money may flow at different rates depending on the basket.

QUESTION: So how does that process work when you say we’ll go about moving this as soon as possible? They can draw on this as – like a bank account? Or is there some sort of transfer involved, or how does that work?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Brad, I don’t know if you – were you on the call when I just went through the three baskets again, or were you not?

QUESTION: Yeah, I was, but maybe I missed it.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Okay. So the first chunk of money, the first basket, the money that goes to pay for UN services, 120 million will go soonest to the UN. The rest of that 500 million, 380, will be held to pay for future UN appeals that the Libyan people and the TNC decide are needed. Okay? So that money goes to the UN, transfers to the UN.

Second basket for the fuel, the vendor gets paid, the fuel purveyor gets paid. In the third basket, as soon as we can release it, the money goes to the authorities in Qatar that have set up the temporary financial mechanism, and it goes into the bank account set up for that.

QUESTION: Okay.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: And the TNC has to come forward with its request for disbursement from that mechanism.

QUESTION: But what do you have to wait upon when – you said “as soon as we can disperse it.” What regulatory hurdle? What’s left in the process?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Let’s have Briefer Number Three speak to this.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL THREE: There’s – right now, there is a process that goes about. As you might understand, each of the funds that are frozen are controlled by OFAC and the executive order. And so since – to release them, there will be a process that is very familiar to OFAC that has where directive licenses are used. So it’s a process of getting the TNC and the United States State Department and Treasury to line up. But it’s not a very – as compared to other things, it’s not a very hard process.

QUESTION: Thank you.

OPERATOR: Our next question comes from Josh Rogin of Foreign Policy. Go ahead. Your line is open.

QUESTION: Hi. Thanks. So now that this part of the effort to unfreeze some of the funds is over – of course, this doesn’t come close to what the TNC has identified as their short-term needs for funding – what’s the next step? How do – what’s the next effort to unfreeze more funds? What’s your strategy for doing that? And when will we see some progress on that?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Josh, I think we want to get this piece done, and then we’re going to go forward from there. As we’ve been saying, there is the larger question as the TNC gets its feet under itself in Tripoli and the violence begins to end about it coming forward to the UN to discuss how it would like to see the two UNSCRs – UNSCR 1970 and 1973 – unwound, and that will also speak to whether the UN freezing of all these assets comes to an end. So I think it’s premature to speculate, but there are a number of routes for unfreezing the rest of it.

QUESTION: Okay. Does this mean that the effort to unfreeze the 200 million or so that’s held unilaterally by the United States, is that still going on? Is that still part of the plan? (Pause.) Hello?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Hi, Josh. We’re just trying to get it together here. Give us one second.

QUESTION: Oh. Sure, sure.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: I think we – now that we have this much bigger chunk on its way, we have to look again at that other piece. It may very well get wound into this 1.5.

QUESTION: Okay. Fair enough. Thank you.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Okay. If there are no other questions, I think we’re good for tonight if you are.

OPERATOR: We actually do have more questions if you want to take more.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Okay. We’ll take two more.

OPERATOR: Okay. We have a question from Richard Roth of CNN. Go ahead. Your line is open.

QUESTION: Hello from the UN. One can’t forget the image of South Africa’s ambassador kind of being late for the Libya vote a couple of months ago at the Security Council. What among the eight different reasons we’ve heard was the key holdup for them? And what do you see going forward from South Africa and other countries in your quest for a Syria resolution as it seems that more and more countries are willing to take on the U.S. a little bit in this area?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: We heard a lot of things from South Africa over the last couple of weeks. In the endgame, there were two issues. The first was that they wanted to wait for a little more support from their AU brethren. There’s an AU meeting going on now, as you know. Some members of the AU have recognized the TNC, but not all, and the AU as an organization has not done so. The second thing we spoke to at the beginning, which was that the initial draft spoke of giving the money to the TNC, which most of the rest of the sanctions committee members were comfortable with, but given that the South Africans have not themselves recognized the TNC as a governing authority, they needed that fuzzed up a little bit, which we were able to do with the last compromise, calling them relevant Libyan authorities.

OPERATOR: Our next question comes --

QUESTION: And going forward with Syria?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Going forward with Syria, we continue to believe that more UN action on Syria is the right way to go, and we’re continuing to work on that. You know that we have problems with some Security Council members on that, and as the Secretary has said, we’re urging those countries to get on the right side of history.

MS. FULTON: Okay. With that, I think we have time for just one final question.

OPERATOR: Our next question comes from Arshad Mohammed of Reuters. Go ahead. Your line is open.

QUESTION: Just two quick things so that I’m perfectly clear: The transfers from the first two baskets of $500 million will ultimately then be from the United States directly to the UN agencies in the first case, and to the fuel provider in the second case? And then secondly, in the spirit of transparency, who is the fuel provider that has been providing power thus far to Benghazi and other parts of Libya and who you expect to pay out of that second basket going forward?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Okay. First, on your first question, yes, the money goes right from the U.S. to the UN for the first basket and to the fuel provider for the second basket. The fuel provider has been uncomfortable having its name out in the press, so I think I will let you guys find that elsewhere.

QUESTION: Thank you.

MS. FULTON: Okay. If there’s nothing further, I think this concludes our call. Our principals have to move on, so thank you, everybody, for joining us. We appreciate your time this evening and thank you very much.

# # #

Saturday 27 August 2011

Our History



The roots of the Notting Hill Carnival began in Trinidad where the first carnival was held in 1833 to mark an end to slavery in the Caribbean.
During the late 1950s, a great many Caribbean immigrants traveled to the UK, bringing with them a wealth of culture, musical traditions and sumptuous cuisine. However, racial tensions of the era subjected the community to constant pressures. Their dream was to one day, bring the people of London together in a way that would embrace and celebrate Caribbean culture while uplifting a community facing racism, lack of working opportunities and poor housing conditions.

The first carnival took place in 1964, encouraging people, both black and white, to go into the streets and express themselves socially as well as artistically, and by 1976 this distinctly Caribbean event was attracting around 150,000 people.

The spirit, courage and determination of the hundreds of London-based Caribbean people who fought for freedom and justice, have transformed the Notting Hill Carnival from a hazy dream into Europe’s premier cultural arts festival that is recognised throughout the world today.

The essence of the Notting Hill Carnival is embodied by the five Artistic Arenas - Calypso, Mas (masquerade), Pan (steel bands) and the Mobile and Static Sound Systems, all combining to make this event unlike any other in the world.

Friday 26 August 2011









Mayor of London gives backing to Notting Hill Carnival



The Mayor of London Boris Johnson has issued the following statement ahead of this year's Notting Hill Carnival, which takes place on Sunday 28 and Monday 29 August.

The Mayor said: 'Notting Hill Carnival is a giant amongst festivals, one of the most hotly anticipated highlights of London's events calendar. Having lived in the area, I have an enduring affection for this terrific street party. With its roots in the history and lives of the city's Caribbean community, Carnival brings together people from all walks of life and will next year be an important part of the celebrations that add to the excitement of hosting the 2012 Games.'

Notting Hill Carnival attracts an estimated one million people onto the streets of West London over the two days. This year's Carnival will begin at 9am and finish 7pm on both days, earlier than in previous years and there will be more stewards at the event, as well as increased police numbers in the area and across the capital.

The Mayor, who has provided funding for this year's stewarding operation, commented: 'Carnival is one of the most exciting events of the year and we want Londoners and visitors to the capital to have a safe and enjoyable time. The police have been targeting potential troublemakers and anyone thinking of causing trouble should stay away. This is a Carnival for the people – let's show the world we know how to throw a party and have a good time.'

www.nottinghill-carnival.com / media@nottinghill-carnival.com

Tips for people attending Carnival

•Tubes and buses will be busy, so plan your journey in advance
•Sunday is Children's day and traditionally less crowded
•Move along the whole of the route
•Go with the flow of the crowd - don't try to walk against it
•Have a set meeting place in case you lose family or friends - try not to rely on your mobile phone
•Don't bring your valuables or wear expensive jewellery
•Keep your belongings with you at all times
•Don't carry too much cash
•Remember to keep alert on your way home too - some criminals may use busy areas to commit crime
•Police officers are there to help - sometimes they may ask you to walk a longer route - this is for safety reasons


Area map
A map can be found at www.met.police.uk/nottinghillcarnival/assets/nhc_map_2011.pdf.

Travel and transport advice
Travel and transport advice, including any station closures or changes to bus stops can be found at www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/gettingaround/Nottinghillcarnival.

Police advice and information
www.met.police.uk/nottinghillcarnival/

Notes to editors

1.For additional information about this year's Notting Hill Carnival, please go to www.nottinghill-carnival.com. Or email media@nottinghill-carnival.com. Telephone: 207 727 0072.

2.The Mayor met with organisers and members of the Genesis and St Lucia Xtreme mas bands earlier this week. Genesis have established a reputation over 30 years for their costumes and contribution to carnival arts and St Lucia Xtreme are bringing a modern twist to carnival aimed at all revellers .

BEN TV -IGBO DAY AND AWARDS 2011


Igboland is the home of the Igbo people and it covers most of Southeast Nigeria. This area is divided by the Niger River into two unequal sections – the eastern region (which is the largest) and the midwestern region. The river, however, has not acted as a barrier to cultural unity; rather it has provided an easy means of communication in an area where many settlements claim different origins. The Igbos are also surrounded on all sides by other tribes (the Bini, Warri, Ijaw, Ogoni, Igala, Tiv, Yako and Ibibio).




The origins of the Igbo people has been the subject of much speculation, and it is only in the last fifty years that any real work has been carried out in this subject:

...like any group of people, they are anxious to discover their origin and reconstruct how they came to be how they are. ...their experiences under colonialsim and since Nigeria’s Independence have emphasized for them the reality of their group identity which they want to anchor into authenticated history. (Afigbo, A.E.. ‘Prolegomena to the study of the culture history of the Igbo-Speaking Peoples of Nigeria’, Igbo Language and Culture, Oxford University Press, 1975. 28.)




Analysis of the sources that are available (fragmentary oral traditions and correlation of cultural traits) have led to the belief that there exists a core area of Igboland, and that waves of immigrant communities from the north and west planted themselves on the border of this core area as early as the ninth century. This core area – Owerri, Orlu and Okigwi – forms a belt, and the people in this area have no tradition of coming from anywhere else. Migration from this area in the recent past tended to be in all directions, and in this way the Igbo culture gradually became homogenized. In addition to this pattern of migration from this core area, other people also entered the Igbo territory in about the fourteenth or fifteenth centuries. Many of these people still exhibit different characteristics from that of the traditional Igbos – for example geographical marginality, the institution of kingship, a hierarchical title system and the amosu tradition (witchcraft). For some time some Igbo-speaking peoples claimed that they were not Igbo – the word was used as a term of abuse for “less cultured” neighbours. The word is now used in three senses, to describe Igbo territory, domestic speakers of the language and the language spoken by them.(see (A.E. Afigbo,1981: Ropes of Sand, Caxton Press,Ibadan. and T. Shaw:1970; "Igbo Ukwu: An Account of Archaeological Discoveries in Eastern Nigeria", Faber and Faber, pp. 268-285).




The first contact between Igboland and Europe came in the mid-fifteenth century with the arrival of the Portuguese. From 1434-1807 the Niger coast acted as a contact point between African and European traders, beginning with the Portuguese, then the Dutch and finally the English. At this stage there was an emphasis on trade rather than empire building, in this case the trade consisting primarily of Igbo slaves. With the abolition of the slave trade in 1807 came a new trading era, concentrating on industry (palm products, timber, elephant tusks and spices). At this point the British began to combine aggressive trading with aggressive imperialism. They saw the hinterland as productive, and refused to be confined to the coast. In 1900 the area that had been administered by the British Niger Company became the Protectorate on Southern Nigeria, also incorporating what had been called the Niger Coast Protectorate. Control of this area then passed from the British Foreign Office to the Colonial Office. Long before it had officially been conquered, Igboland was being treated as a British colony. Between 1900 and 1914 (when Northern and Southern Nigeria were amalgamated) there had been twenty-one British military expeditions into Igboland. In 1928 for the first time in their history, Igbo men were made to pay tax – they were a subject people.





This attempt to take over political control of Igboland met with resistance and cultural protest in the early decades of the twentieth century. A nativistic religious movement sprang up (the ekumeku) which inspired short-lived but feverish messianic enthusiasm. The rumours that the Igbo women were being assessed for taxation, sparked off the 1929 Aba Riots, a massive revolt of women never encountered before in Igbo history. However, the engine of imperialism could not be stopped, and once it had begun, Igbo culture would never be the same again.





























































Tuesday 23 August 2011

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
________________________________________________________________
For Immediate Release August 22, 2011




STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT
ON LIBYA


Blue Heron Farm
Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts


2:20 P.M. EDT


THE PRESIDENT: Good afternoon, everybody. I just completed a call with my National Security Council on the situation in Libya. And earlier today I spoke to Prime Minister Cameron about the extraordinary events taking place there.


The situation is still very fluid. There remains a degree of uncertainty and there are still regime elements who pose a threat. But this much is clear: The Qaddafi regime is coming to an end, and the future of Libya is in the hands of its people.


In just six months, the 42-year reign of Muammar Qaddafi has unraveled. Earlier this year, we were inspired by the peaceful protests that broke out across Libya. This basic and joyful longing for human freedom echoed the voices that we had heard all across the region, from Tunis to Cairo. In the face of these protests, the Qaddafi regime responded with brutal crackdowns. Civilians were murdered in the streets. A campaign of violence was launched against the Libyan people. Qaddafi threatened to hunt peaceful protestors down like rats. As his forces advanced across the country, there existed the potential for wholesale massacres of innocent civilians.

In the face of this aggression, the international community took action. The United States helped shape a U.N. Security Council resolution that mandated the protection of Libyan civilians. An unprecedented coalition was formed that included the United States, our NATO partners and Arab nations. And in March, the international community launched a military operation to save lives and stop Qaddafi’s forces in their tracks.


In the early days of this intervention the United States provided the bulk of the firepower, and then our friends and allies stepped forward. The Transitional National Council established itself as a credible representative of the Libyan people. And the United States, together with our European allies and friends across the region, recognized the TNC as the legitimate governing authority in Libya.


Qaddafi was cut off from arms and cash, and his forces were steadily degraded. From Benghazi to Misrata to the western mountains, the Libyan opposition courageously confronted the regime, and the tide turned in their favor.

Over the last several days, the situation in Libya has reached a tipping point as the opposition increased its coordination from east to west, took town after town, and the people of Tripoli rose up to claim their freedom.

For over four decades, the Libyan people have lived under the rule of a tyrant who denied them their most basic human rights. Now, the celebrations that we’ve seen in the streets of Libya shows that the pursuit of human dignity is far stronger than any dictator. I want to emphasize that this is not over yet. As the regime collapses, there is still fierce fighting in some areas, and we have reports of regime elements threatening to continue fighting.


Although it’s clear that Qaddafi’s rule is over, he still has the opportunity to reduce further bloodshed by explicitly relinquishing power to the people of Libya and calling for those forces that continue to fight to lay down their arms for the sake of Libya.


As we move forward from this pivotal phase, the opposition should continue to take important steps to bring about a transition that is peaceful, inclusive and just. As the leadership of the TNC has made clear, the rights of all Libyans must be respected. True justice will not come from reprisals and violence; it will come from reconciliation and a Libya that allows its citizens to determine their own destiny.


In that effort, the United States will be a friend and a partner. We will join with allies and partners to continue the work of safeguarding the people of Libya. As remaining regime elements menace parts of the country, I’ve directed my team to be in close contact with NATO as well as the United Nations to determine other steps that we can take. To deal with the humanitarian impact, we’re working to ensure that critical supplies reach those in need, particularly those who have been wounded.

Secretary Clinton spoke today with her counterparts from leading nations of the coalition on all these matters. And I’ve directed Ambassador Susan Rice to request that the U.N. Secretary General use next month’s general assembly to support this important transition.


For many months, the TNC has been working with the international community to prepare for a post-Qaddafi Libya. As those efforts proceed, our diplomats will work with the TNC as they ensure that the institutions of the Libyan state are protected, and we will support them with the assets of the Qaddafi regime that were frozen earlier this year. Above all, we will call for an inclusive transition that leads to a democratic Libya.


As we move forward, we should also recognize the extraordinary work that has already been done. To the American people, these events have particular resonance. Qaddafi’s regime has murdered scores of American citizens in acts of terror in the past. Today we remember the lives of those who were taken in those acts of terror and stand in solidarity with their families. We also pay tribute to Admiral Sam Locklear and all of the men and women in uniform who have saved so many lives over the last several months, including our brave pilots that have executed their mission with skill and extraordinary bravery. And all of this was done without putting a single U.S. troop on the ground.


To our friends and allies, the Libyan intervention demonstrates what the international community can achieve when we stand together as one -- although the efforts in Libya are not yet over. NATO has once more proven that it is the most capable alliance in the world and that its strength comes from both its firepower and the power of our democratic ideals. And the Arab members of our coalition have stepped up and shown what can be achieved when we act together as equal partners. Their actions send a powerful message about the unity of our effort and our support for the future of Libya.


Finally, the Libyan people: Your courage and character have been unbreakable in the face of a tyrant. An ocean divides us, but we are joined in the basic human longing for freedom, for justice and for dignity. Your revolution is your own, and your sacrifices have been extraordinary. Now, the Libya that you deserve is within your reach. Going forward, we will stay in close coordination with the TNC to support that outcome. And though there will be huge challenges ahead, the extraordinary events in Libya remind us that fear can give way to hope and that the power of people striving for freedom can bring about a brighter day.


Thank you very much.



The Metropolitan Police Service is proud to police the Notting Hill Carnival which takes place during the August bank holiday, 27th – 29th August 2011.

The policing plan takes almost twelve months to put together and the route is discussed and examined down to the smallest detail. This is so that we can keep crowds safe in this built up area and prevent crime. To do this we work really closely with event organisers the London Notting Hill Carnival Limited, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, Westminster and Brent Councils plus other emergency services.

Some of the Met’s specialist policing units will be involved in this colourful spectacle from the Mounted Branch to the Marine Policing Unit. Special Constables and Volunteer Police Cadets will also be an important part of the operation.

Before Carnival
Given the thousands of people who attend every year crime rates are low. To help us keep it this way, we will once again be targeting known troublemakers to prevent them ruining Carnival for everyone else. Running since 2001, Operation Razorback has been very successful at arresting and disrupting groups of troublemakers before the August bank holiday.

Letters warning people known to cause trouble or who may be planning to break the law will also be hand delivered by officers in the days leading up to the event

































Stop and search big time in central london









At Carnival
At Carnival itself, you may see a lot of officers within the event area. This is not because we are expecting a lot of crime but to keep the 500,000 people who come to enjoy Carnival each day safe in this crowded area.

To prevent crime, officers will be using stop-and-search and screening wands at the entry points to Carnival. Carried out with the full support of the organisers and the community, this aims to deter people intent on causing trouble.

Bringing a dog to Carnival is not advisable. If people bring dangerous dogs to Carnival, members of the public could be put at risk. Specialist officers from the Status Dogs Unit will be working in partnership with the RSCPA to stop dangerous dogs from being taken into the event.

Colleagues from the British Transport Police will run mobile operations at tube stations making it harder for people carrying weapons to travel on the transport network.

And an extensive network of CCTV cameras will cover most of the event area, giving officers a wider view of the crowd.





















Monday 22 August 2011

THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 22, 2011
Readout of the President's Call with Prime Minister Cameron of the United Kingdom

The President and Prime Minister Cameron spoke today about the evolving situation in Libya. They agreed that the situation had reached a tipping point and that Qadhafi needed to relinquish power once and for all. At the same time, they agreed to continue to work with allies and partners in the international community to protect the people of Libya and to support a peaceful transition to democracy. The Prime Minister joined the President in urging the Transitional National Council to continue demonstrating its leadership by respecting the rights of the people of Libya, avoiding civilian casualties, protecting the institutions of the Libyan state, and pursuing a transition to democracy that is just and inclusive for all of the people of Libya.

###



Disorder: Updates and advice
22 August 2011


At 15.46hrs on Monday 22 August

MPS Disorder Update for Businesses - ISSUE 10

At 11.29hrs on Monday 22 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has now arrested 1894 people (adult: 1483 / juveniles: 411) in connection with disorder and looting in London. Of these 1085 (adult: 855 / juveniles: 230) have now been charged.

At 23.54hrs on Sunday 21 August

17-year-old male from Hornsey N8 appears in custody at Camberwell Green Youth Court on Monday 22 August accused of the robbery of a scooter within the London Borough of Croydon on 8 August.

At 23.10hrs on Sunday 21 August




At 23.10hrs on Sunday 21 August

The Metropolitan Police Service have now arrested 1,883 people in connection with disorder and looting in London. Of these 1,074 have now been charged.

At 00.01hrs on Sunday 21 August

Latest figures show that there were 3,296 reported total notifiable offences linked to the disorder that occurred across London between 6 and 9 August.

At 18.44hrs on Saturday 20 August

Police have released a further 52 images of people we would like to speak with in relation to recent disorder affecting parts of London








At 21.19hrs on Friday 19 August

A 17-year-old male from the Enfield area has tonight (19 August) been charged with violent disorder and arson in relation to incidents in Tottenham on 7 August. He will appear in custody at Stratford Magistrates' Court on Saturday, 20 August.

The male was arrested in connection with the attempted arson of a council building on 7 August in Tottenham High Road, Tottenham and violent disorder. He was charged as above.

At 16.35hrs on Friday 19 August

Three people have been arrested in connection with the violence and disorder seen across the Capital as a result of information received following last night's Crimewatch Special.













At 15.06hrs on Friday 19 August

MPS Disorder Update for Businesses - Issue 9

At 12.05hrs on Friday 19 August

The Metropolitan Police Service have now arrested 1,802 people in connection with disorder and looting in London. Of these 1,032 have now been charged.

At 09.35hrs on Friday 19 August

Detectives from Operation Withern are today (19 August) releasing a further 39 images of people we would like to speak with in relation to recent disorder affecting parts of London















At 12.52hrs on Thursday 18 August

This morning, Thursday 18 August, police have carried out a number of search warrants in Bramble Close, N15, an estate near Tottenham Hale Retail Park in Haringey, as part of a pro-active intelligence led operation, under Operation Withern, to recover stolen property and arrest those believed to be involved in recent incidents of disorder.

Seven people have been arrested on suspicion of offences including handling stolen goods, possession with intent to supply cannabis, cultivating cannabis, possession of counterfeit money.

Officers have seized property including large flat screen TVs, mobile phones, laptops, sportswear and thousands of pounds of suspected counterfeit cash.

Haringey Borough Commander Sandra Looby said: "This operation is an example of the proactive response that we will be continuing in order to identify and arrest those involved in the criminal behaviour linked to the disorder last week.

"The events witnessed in Haringey at the beginning of last week do not reflect the borough that we live and work in or visit on a day to day basis, and the local community has been vocal in condemning what happened.

"Many local young people are involved in the Haringey Volunteer Police Cadets and have been helping to paint hoardings in Tottenham High Road, talking to shop keepers and speaking with residents in sheltered accomodation to offer reassurance and help return Haringey to normality.

"People have shown the community spirit that is representative of Haringey. The community has shown an overwhelming desire to unite against the disorder and we share a clear and unified determination to return Haringey to everyday life and business and ensure those that harmed the community are brought to justice through the courts.

"We continue to work with the community and partner agencies to make Haringey a safe borough for young and old alike and to ensure that those most affected by the disorder receive the appropriate support."

Anyone with information about the disorder or who would like to pass images or footage to Operation Withern is asked to contact the Major Investigation Team on 020 8345 4142. Alternatively anyone can report crime and provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

At 10.00hrs on Thursday 18 August

Tonight, Thursday 18 August, at 20:00hrs, there will be a BBC Crimewatch Special featuring the violence and disorder across London.

One CCTV clip on the Crimewatch Special from approximately 22:20hrs on Monday, 8 August shows an innocent member of the public outside the Carphone Warehouse shop in Clapham Junction. The man tries to stop a large group of trouble makers from smashing the Carphone Warehouse shop window further but they attack him with a fire extinguisher spraying it directly in his face. Police would like to hear from the victim who is yet to be identified; they would also like to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident.

At 21.00hrs on Wednesday 17 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has now arrested 1744 people in connection with disorder and looting in London. Of these 1010 have now been charged.

At 13.10hrs on Wednesday 17 August

Two men appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court on Friday 12 August and were charged with the following offences:

Abdullah Ansair, 22, of Bayham Road ,W13 was charged with burglary.
Armin Naserbakht, 22, of Chilham Close, Perivale was charged with burglary.

Three men appeared at Camberwell Green Magistrates Court on Wednesday 10 August and were charged with the following offences:

David Benjamin, 25, of King Street, W6 was charged with burglary.
Frederick Osei, 22, of James Bedford Close, Pinner, HA5 was charged with burglary.
Pierre Wilkinson, 20, of Fore Street, Pinner, was charged with burglary.

They have all been remanded in custody.

All charges are in relation to a burglary on 8 August 2011 which was part of the disorder in Ealing.

At 12.40hrs on Wednesday 17 August

A 12 year old boy was arrested on 14 August on suspicion of theft from Blue Inc, Rye Lane SE15.

He is bailed to return to a south London police station on 5 September pending further inquiries.

At 11.52hrs on Wednesday 17 August

A man who robbed a special constable as he made his way home from policing the disorder in Camden has been jailed for two years.

At 10.11hrs on Wednesday 17 August

The Met have now charged more than 1,000 people in connection with last week’s violence and disorder.

At 08.59hrs on Wednesday 17 August

A man arrested by police investigating the attempted murder of two police officers as they chased looters during last week's disorder has been bailed.

At 17.19hrs on Tuesday 16 August

Police in Hackney police have today, Tuesday 16 August, arrested two people during a raid at an address in Clarence Road E5 in connection with last week's looting.

A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder, robbery and handling stolen goods.

An 18-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods.

Both remain in custody at an east London police station at this stage.

Property recovered from the address included a camera, believed to have been stolen from a journalist in Clarence Road during the disorder, clothing, tools and a computer.

At 15.50hrs on Tuesday 16 August

MPS Disorder Update for Businesses - ISSUE 8

At 11.30hrs on Tuesday 16 August

The latest MPS figures in relation to the disorder are: 1,685 total arrests; 985 people have been charged.

237 officers were injured during the disorder.

At 23.42hrs on Monday 15 August

Two people arrested on Sunday, 14 August in connection the murder of a man in Ealing during the disorder last week have been charged.

At 19.09hrs on Monday 15 August

Additional officers continue to be out on the streets of the capital providing a highly visible presence, as our policing operation continues.

The number of officers out on the streets of London has been planned out on a daily basis after a thorough assessment of what intelligence and information is available to police and the forthcoming events across London.

Officers on duty are a mix of mutual aid, borough officers, public order-trained officers and specialist central units.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Steve Kavanagh, said: "I know that there will be substantial interest in the number of officers that we have on duty over the coming days. I want Londoners to know that we will continue to have a very visible, hugely increased number of police officers out on our streets.

"We are out across London arresting those people who brought crime, disorder, fear and violence to out streets. We will relentlessly pursue them, as our communities deserve.

"Our additional officers, including those on mutual aid, are working to local borough senior officers. We're taking the opportunity of using our extra officers firstly to carry out arrests as part of Operation Withern and then to support local officers dealing with those crimes most affecting the communities where they are deployed."

We will continue to have a substantial police presence out on the streets of London during this week, and going forward with our plans under constant review.

Over the course of the weekend (13 and 14 August) approximately 16,000 police officers were on duty over a 24-hour period.

At 19.00hrs on Monday 15 August

The latest MPS figures in relation to the disorder and looting etc are:

1,635 total arrests; 940 people have been charged.

At 17.04hrs on Monday 15 August

Messages of support and thanks have been flooding in from across London and further afield, following last week’s disorder.

At 16.29hrs on Monday 15 August

Detectives from Operation Withern are today (15 August) releasing a further 46 images of people police would like to speak with in relation to recent disorder affecting parts of London.

At 15.29hrs on Monday 15 August

MPS Disorder Update for Businesses - ISSUE 7

At 14.22hrs on Monday 15 August

Men bailed in connection with Croydon murder

At 12.14hrs on Monday 15 August

The Met has now arrested 1,593 people in connection with violence, disorder and looting. 926 of these have been charged.

At 11.30hrs on Monday 15 August

A further six arrests have been made in connection with the violence and disorder seen across London last week.

They are:

= Two men arrested in connection with the disorder in Haringey on 6 August

= A man arrested in connection with the disorder in Enfield on 7 August

= A man arrested in connection with the disorder in Ealing on 8 August

= A man arrested in connection with the disorder in Hackney on 8 August

= A woman arrested in connection with the disorder in Hornsey on 7 August

At 09.45hrs on Monday 15 August

Police dog 'Obi' struck by brick during London disorder.

At 08.45hrs on Monday 15 August

The Metropolitan Police have now arrested 1580 people in connection with violence, disorder and looting in London. Of those arrested, 330 are juveniles. A total of 923 of those arrested have been charged.

At 01.22hrs on Monday 15 August

Detectives investigating disorder in London are releasing an image of a ring seized during a search warrant in the Notting Hill area during Sunday (14 August).

The raids followed three nights of looting and theft in Notting Hill by gangs on local premises such as newsagents, off licenses, pubs and restaurants where customers and diners were robbed of personal belongings whilst eating and socialising.

Premises targeted include Bumpkin restaurant and the Walmer Castle pub.

Ten people were arrested during the raids (we await details).

During the search of one address in Powis Terrace, W11 police recovered a Bvlgari ring and are keen to speak to the rightful owner of the valuable item. If you know where the item came from you are also asked to call the enquiry team on 0208 246 9385.

At 22.49hrs on Sunday 14 August

UPDATE: Ealing murder

A witnesses detectives investigating the murder of Richard Bowes had appealed for to come forward has now made contact with police.

On Wednesday, 10 August night officers issued an image of a man they thought could be a key witness to the murder. Appeals for this man were reiterated last night, Saturday 13 August and he has now come forward.

Two people, a 16-year-old boy [B] and a 31-year-old woman [C], arrested in connection with the investigation remain in custody.

At 21.37hrs on Sunday 14 August

As part of Operation Withern, police in Camden, together with the Met's Specialist South East Search Team conducted a weapons search-sweep in Queens Crescent, NW5 - at Ashdown Crescent with the junction of Wellesley Park Estate, on Saturday 13th August 2011.

The search involved seven officers and took ten hours to complete. Residents and members of the public thanked officers for their work in the area.

Using metal detectors and other specialist equipment, officers dug up to approximately 3" inches deep and within flower beds in various locations, found 12 knives, metal chains, metal bars, a hammer and an small amount of what is believed to be Class C drugs, (Cannabis), and cigarette papers.

Later in the afternoon, officers conducted a search at the Denton Estate and recovered 2 cash tills, 2 knives, iron and metal bars, a crow-bar, car keys, a Sat-Nav, a mobile phone and a CS spray canister. The Cash Tills have been confirmed as being from Evans Cycle Shop in Chalk Farm Road, which was looted during the disorder in Camden on Monday night, 8th August 2011.

The area is known to local officers as one with youth tensions. It was a pro-active intelligence led operation as part of Operation Withern, to recover stolen property and to seize weapons hidden which could be used in violence and disorder.

Detective Chief Inspector Eric Phelps, from Camden Police, who organised the search said: "This is an amazing result. Several knives which could have been used as lethal weapons have been taken off the streets, clearly making it safer for everyone.

"We are now in the process of organising further searches. The next phase will include warrants being sought accordingly, to bring those intent on causing misery and harm to the vast majority of law-abiding citizens, to justice."

At 20.55hrs on Sunday 14 August

Detectives investigating the murder of Trevor Ellis in Croydon have made a further arrest.

At 20.49hrs on Sunday 14 August

Gordon Edward Thompson, 33, of Waddon Road, Croydon, has today, Sunday 14 August, been charged with:

= Arson with intent to endanger life on Monday 8 August at Reeves Furniture Store, Reeves Corner, Croydon

= Arson on Monday 8 August at Reeves Furniture Store, Reeves Corner, Croydon

= Two counts of burglary on Monday 8 August in Croydon Town Centre

= One count of violent disorder on Monday 8 August in Croydon Town Centre

He has been remanded in custody to appear at Croydon Magistrates' court on Monday 15 August.

At 13.42hrs on Sunday 14 August

Police have moved to take weapons off the streets of Brent following the disorder seen across the capital this week.

At 11.33hrs on Sunday 14 August

MPS Disorder Update to Businesses - Issue 6

At 06.55hrs on Sunday 14 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has now arrested 1401 people in connection with violence, disorder and looting. 808 of these have been charged.

Further facts and figures

At 06.47hrs on Sunday 14 August

Met detectives acting on intelligence from Operation Withern executed a warrant at an address in Simla House, Weston Street, Kipling Estate, SE1 at 07.00 on Saturday 13 August.

During the search of just one address officers found significant quantities of what is thought to be ecstasy, cannabis, crystal meth and in excess a kilogram of cocaine with a collective street value thought to be in the region of £80,000.

The Officers from Southwark Borough Drugs and Firearms Team also seized £34,000 of cash and a CS canister.

The search of the premises revealed a connection to a nearby lock-up. Officers searching the lock-up found nine Playstation 3s and 40 other computer consoles.

A 45 year old man was arrested at the address. He has since been charged with possession of Class A drugs with intent to supply and money laundering.

He has also been bailed until 30th September in relation to possessing a prohibited weapon.

At 06.08hrs on Sunday 14 August

The detective leading the investigation into the murder of Trevor Ellis in Croydon on Monday 8 August has appealed for witnesses to come forward.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Hutchison now believes Mr Ellis' killers were involved in looting during the disorder seen in Croydon.

At 23.21hrs on Saturday 13 August

Seven people have been arrested today, Saturday 13 August in connection with the disorder in London following raids across Tower Hamlets and Islington.

This was a pro active intelligence led operation, as part of Operation Withern, to recover stolen property and arrest those involved in recent incidents in Tower Hamlets and Hackney.

Six people remain in custody at east London police stations:

1) A 20-year-old man arrested on suspicion of burglary and possession of class B drugs.

2) A 15-year-old boy arrested on suspicion of burglary.

3) A 35-year-old woman arrested on suspicion of burglary.

4) A 17-year-old girl arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods

5) An 18-year-old man arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods.

6) A 20-year-old man was arrested for violent disorder and burglary.

One person, a 44-year-old woman, has been charged with Handling Stolen Goods.

At 22.53hrs on Saturday 13 August

Detectives investigating the murder of Richard Bowes have reiterated their appeals for a witness and for anyone with footage of the incident to come forward.

At 19.30hrs on Saturday 13 August

Detectives continue to appeal for witnesses and information after a murder during the violent disorder in Ealing.

At 18.24hrs on Saturday 13 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has now arrested 1,276 people in connection with violence, disorder and looting. 748 of these have been charged.

At 18.24hrs on Saturday 13 August

Since the disturbances started last week there have been some extremely brave and heroic acts shown by officers and staff at the Metropolitan Police Service. Read about some of those who have gone over and above the call of duty to keep Londoners safe.

At 18.03hrs on Saturday 13 August

Detectives from Operation Withern investigating the large fire at Reeves Furniture store in Reeves Corner, Croydon, as part of the disorder in the area on Monday 8 August have today, Saturday 13 August, made a fourth arrest.

A 33-year-old man [D] was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and burglary.

He was taken to a south London police station where he remains in custody.

We have previously arrested three people in connection with the incident.

On 9 August detectives from Operation Withern arrested a man [A - 21 ys] on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. He was taken to a south London police station and later bailed to return in September pending further inquiries.

On 10 August officers arrested a boy [B - 15 ys] and a man [C - 25 ys] on suspicion of arson with intent endanger life.

They were taken to a south London police station - 'B' was later bailed to return (on a date to be advised) pending further inquiries; 'C' was released with no further action.

At 16.20hrs on Saturday 13 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has now arrested 1,271 people in connection with violence, disorder and looting. 745 of these have been charged.

At 14.54hrs on Saturday 13 August

Detectives from Operation Withern are today (Saturday 13 August) releasing a further 44 images of people we would like to speak with in relation to recent disorder affecting parts of London.

The Metropolitan Police Service has now arrested 1,225 people in connection with violence, disorder and looting. 725 of these have been charged.

Operation Withern's priority is to bring to justice those who have committed violent and criminal acts. As the detailed and thorough investigation progresses we will be issuing photographs of people who were in the vicinity of the disorder and who may be able to help officers with their enquiries.

These images we are releasing today relate to the looting and violent disorder in Peckham, Hackney, Wandsworth and Hornsey on 7 and 8 August.

Flickr is hosting the photos so that the public have as many opportunities as possible to help the Metropolitan Police Service identify those who committed violent and criminal acts on London's streets.

If anyone recognises individuals in the photographs or has any information about the violence and disorder that has occurred they should contact the Major Investigation Team on 020 8345 4142. Alternatively anyone can report crime and provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Operation Withern includes officers from the Homicide and Serious Crime Command, specialist investigators from the Public Order Branch as well as police support staff. The Major Investigation Team has begun and will continue securing the various and often large crime scenes, retrieving forensics and going through thousands of hours of CCTV. This will be a long-term operation although work is already underway to identify those individuals responsible.

A dedicated webpage has gone live displaying the images of people the Metropolitan Police Service wants to speak to in connection with the serious disorder and violence that has been affecting parts of London.

In addition Flickr is hosting the same photos so that the public have as many opportunities as possible to help the MPS identify those who committed violent and criminal acts on London's streets.

14.30hrs on Saturday 13 August

MPS Disorder Update for Businesses - Issue 5 Saturday 13 August

07.30hrs on Saturday 13 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has now arrested 1222 people in connection with violence, disorder and looting. 704 of these have been charged.

03.30hrs on Saturday 13 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has now arrested 1210 people in connection with violence, disorder and looting. 698 of these have been charged so far.

They include:

Four people arrested on suspicion of burglary in a series of raids in Tower Hamlets and Dagenham.

The proactive, intelligence led operation was carried out as part of Op. Withern to catch people suspected of taking part in the disorder in Bethnal Green on Monday 8 August and to recover stolen goods.

Three men, aged 21, 20 and 19, and a 17-year-old boy were arrested and designer clothing was seized

Updates and Advice from Friday 12 August

22.30hrs on Friday 12 August

A man has been charged following an attack on a jewellers in Church Road, SE19, on the evening of 9 August.

Aaron Vincent Douglas, 18 (27/1/93), of Gibbs Square SE19 was this evening charged with burglary and will appear at City of Westminster Magistrates' Court tomorrow, 13 August.

20.30hrs on Friday 12 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has now arrested 1144 people in connection with violence, disorder and looting. 693 of these have been charged.

19.30hrs on Friday 12 August

Two further men have today been arrested in connection with the disorder in London.

A man (age not known) was arrested on suspicion of burglary in connection with the disorder in Ealing on 8 August. He is currently in custody at a west London police station.

A 44-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder in connection with the disorder in Hackney on 8 August. He is currently in custody at an east London police station.

18.00hrs on Friday 12 August

The Met's call handlers and dispatchers have handled record numbers of calls from members of the public across London following the unrest

13.30hrs on Friday 12 August

Two teenagers believed to have been involved in looting and violent disorder on Monday night (8 August) have been arrested today (12 August) during morning raids.

The males, aged 16 and 17, were arrested in connection with violent disorder, burglary and GBH, at residential addresses in the Pimlico area by officers from Westminster's crime squad.

The burglary and violent disorder relate to incidents on Monday night in Sloane Square when looters attacked the Hugo Boss store along with a Bureau de Change in Sloane Square. Following on from this, shops including a jewellers in Pimlico Road were hit.

The GBH relates to an assault involving a machete that occurred last night (11 August) in Westminster.

A search of one of the properties uncovered a machete and a mobile phone containing pictures of Monday night's disorder and images of what appears to be stolen property (jewellery).

Both suspects remain in police custody.

07.30hrs on Friday 12 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has now arrested a total of 1051 people in connection with violence, disorder and looting. 591 people have been charged.

They include:

- A 19-year-old man arrested in Haringey on suspicion of violent disorder and theft. He is believed to have posted a picture on Twitter posing with a haul of suspected stolen goods.

- A 16-year-old girl charged with two counts of robbery, attempted robbery, possession of a knife, threatening violence contrary to Section 4 of the Public Order Act and assault on police in Lewisham.

As part of the same inquiry a 15-year-old girl was also charged with attempted robbery and threatening violence contrary to Section 4 of the Public Order Act. They were arrested after being identified by officers on increased patrols in the area.

Police in Lewisham have also been working with freelance photographers who covered the disorder on Monday to secure images of suspects. One photographer has already come forward with high-quality pictures which are being cross referred with CCTV footage.

Updates and Advice from Thursday 11 August

21.50hrs on Thursday 11 August

The Met have now arrested more than 1,000 people in connection with violence disorder and looting.

A total of 1,009 people have been arrested with 464 charged so far.

Commander Christine Jones said: "The large number of arrests is testament to the professionalism and dedication of all the officers involved in this operation.

"We have outstanding officers who have been working around the clock to proactively arrest those involved in disorder both on the street and as a result of detective work through Operation Withern.

"We're sending a clear message to people: if you get involved indisorder we will catch you."

20.00hrs on Thursday 11 August

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Steve Kavanagh said: "Tonight in London we are maintaining our presence on the streets with the similar huge numbers of officers - 16,000. London has remained calm for the last two nights and I certainly hope and pray it stays that way.

"The scenes we awoke to on Tuesday morning are still shocking, sickening and almost beyond belief. It was a truly sad day for London. A day that no one expected, with violence having ripped through 22 of our 32 boroughs, over 1,700 calls for the fire brigade to deal with fires, and groups of looters trashing people's livelihoods.

"It certainly stretched us. It is clear we did not have the numbers on duty to deal with that despite having mobilised the same number of officers as the total staff of West Midlands Police. Our officers did the very best that they could, they did it bravely and they put themselves in danger to do what they could for the safety of London.

“They showed discipline and professionalism, which should never be seen as a sign of weakness. Scenes of officers catching a woman as she jumps from a burning building, officers in shirt sleeves running towards disorder and just four PCs tackling a mob of 40 are scenes we should all be proud of. Equally, we should be proud of those members of the community who joined us on the streets to persuade those gathering from attempting to repeat such criminal devastation.

"Since making the biggest peacetime deployment of officers we have had we have filled the cells of London twice, courts are sitting through the nights and we are tracking down those who brought fear and shame to our city."

At 19.05hrs on Thursday 11 August

Since Saturday 6 August 186 officers have reported being injured, having experienced unprecedented violence directed at them during the disorder.

At 18.35hrs on Thursday 11 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has now arrested a total of 950 people in connection with violence, disorder and looting. 457 people have been charged.

At 18.25hrs on Thursday 11 August

Officers have arrested a man in connection with an incident whereby a young man was robbed by a group who pretended to help him after he was assaulted during Monday’s disorder.

At 17.29hrs on Thursday 11 August

MPS Disorder Update for Businesses - Issue 3A

At 16.50hrs on Thursday 11 August

Advice from DirectGov website: Making a claim for compensation

If you've suffered loss or damage as a result of the disorder, you may be able to claim compensation.

If you have insurance, check that your policy covers riot damage. If it does, contact your insurer directly to claim.

If your insurance doesn’t cover riot damage, or you don’t have insurance at all, you may be able to claim compensation from your local police authority.

To claim, complete a claim form and send it to your local police authority. The form and details of police authorities are on the DirectGov website.

You have 42 days to make a claim for compensation. These 42 days are counted from the first 'clear day' after the disorder.

At 16.05hrs on Thursday 11 August

MPS Disorder Update for Businesses - Issue 3

At 15.25hrs on Thursday 11 August

Metropolitan Police Special Constabulary have turned out in force to serve alongside regular officers

At 15.14hrs on Thursday 11 August

The two people arrested yesterday in connection with the fire at Reeves Furniture Store in Croydon remain in custody at a south London police station.

They are a 15-year-old boy and a 25-year-old man - both arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

A 21-year-old man arrested on Tuesday 9 August in connection with the incident has been bailed to return on a date in September.

At 12.30hrs on Thursday 11 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has now arrested a total of 922 people in connection with violence, disorder and looting. 401 people have been charged.

At 12.12hrs on Thursday 11 August

Officers paid an early morning visit to eight addresses in Lambeth to arrest those suspected of being responsible for the recent disorder.

At 11.47hrs on Thursday 11 August

Detectives investigating the serious assault of a man in Ealing have released CCTV of a suspect and potential witness.

At 09.40hrs on Thursday 11 August

Acting Commissioner Tim Godwin speaking following COBRA meeting this morning:

“Can I add that a lot of stuff has been said about Tuesday and Wednesday in relation to the large numbers of officers we’ve had and the support we’ve had from other forces, but what I would like to do is pay tribute to the men and women who went out on Monday night, when we faced unprecedented violence and damage and criminality and looting, and they were so brave. I was so proud of them in terms of how they stood up. Any suggestion the officers stood back is wrong.

“We’ve had lots of stories coming out from officers who have been on the radio telling us about their experiences on Monday night. I am extremely proud to be the Acting Commissioner of the Metropolitan police and I am extremely proud of them. We mustn’t forget what they did.

“My Commanders who ran that operation were extremely stretched and extremely brave in their decisions. One of the things this country, this city, should be proud of is that whilst we’ve had some tragedies in Birmingham and here in London, the lack of casualties on the back of this, the lack of filling up hospitals, is something we should be very proud of, and I don’t think would happen anywhere else in the world. As a result of that, we mustn’t lose sight of that good work done on Monday by lots of very brave officers.”

At 09.03hrs on Thursday 11 August

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Steve Kavanagh said: "In the early hours of this morning we started knocking on doors to arrest people. We have got more than 100 warrants which we will be working our way through over the coming hours and days. With so many officers on duty we want to use their time by going out there and arresting burglars, robbers and thieves - those people who cause concern and crime in our communities. Some of those warrants are also directly linked to Operation Withern's ongoing investigation."

At 06.27hrs on Thursday 11 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has now arrested a total of 888 people in connection with violence, disorder and looting. 371 people have been charged.

At 01.17hrs on Thursday 11 August

Officers investigating disorder in London last night (Wed, 11 August) arrested two 17 year old boys in connection with looting in the Sloane Square/ Pimlico areas.

On Monday 8 August and into the early hours of Tuesday 9 August looters attacked the Hugo Boss store along with a Bureau De Change in Sloane Square before attacking shops in Pimlico Road, including a jewellers.

The two were arrested on suspicion of burglary at separate addresses in the Notting Hill and Belgravia districts.

They are currently in custody at a central London police station.

At 00.47hrs on Thursday 11 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has now arrested a total of 820 people in connection with violence, disorder and looting. 279 people have been charged.

At 00.08hrs on Thursday 11 August

Police arrested a man outside Enfield police station at approximately 21:45hrs on Wednesday 10 August for possession of two knuckle dusters, one of which is described as a "make shift" knuckle duster. He is currently in custody.

++++

Police have this afternoon arrested three men in connection with violent disorder and the arson at the Sony Distribution Centre, Solar Way Enfield, on Monday 8 August.

Two of the men (aged 17 and 18 years) remain in custody. The third man, aged 17, has been bailed.

At 00.07hrs on Thursday 11 August

Police have arrested a further two people in connection with the fire at Reeves Furniture Store in Croydon on Monday 8 August.

On Wednesday 10 August, officers arrested a 15-year-old-boy and a 25-year-old man on suspicion of arson with intent endanger life. They remain in custody at a south London police station.

A 21-year old man arrested on Tuesday 9 August in connection with the incident has been bailed to return on a date in September.

Updates and Advice from Wednesday 10 August

At 23.28hrs on Wednesday 10 August

At approximately 19:00hrs on Wednesday 10 August, officers from Sutton Borough carried out a Sec60 Stop & Search on a 19-year old man. During the search, officers examined a mobile phone found in his possession. The IMEI number of the handset was checked to establish whether it had been reported stolen. Checks confirmed the phone had been stolen during the recent disorder in Croydon.

Officers attended an address to carry out a further search and noticed two large boxes outside the property. After entering, two brand new televisions were discovered. The man was arrested on suspicion of burglary. He is now in custody at a south London police station.

Immediately following the arrest, local residents approached the officers with information relating to other suspicious activities in the local area linked to the disorder. Police are now following up these leads and thank the local community for their support and co-operation.

22.00hrs on Wednesday 10 August

Officers have had missiles thrown at them in Eltham this evening (Wednesday, 10 August).

Police have dealt with the disorder and the group has now dispersed.

Police remain on scene.

At 21.40hrs on Wednesday 10 August

The victim of a murder in Warrington Road, Croydon on Monday has been named as Trevor Ellis. More Info

At 20.00 hrs on Wednesday 10 August

Police continue to appeal for witnesses and the identity of a man seriously assaulted during violent disorder in Ealing on Monday night.

At 17.55hrs on Wednesday 10 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has now arrested a total of 805 people in connection with violence, disorder and looting.

So far 251 people have been charged

At 15.42hrs on Wednesday 10 August

Latest advice for businesses

At 14.24hrs on Wednesday 10 August

Detectives from Operation Withern are today (Wednesday 10 August) releasing the second tranche of images of people we would like to speak with in relation to recent disorder affecting parts of London.

A dedicated webpage has gone live displaying the images of people the Metropolitan Police Service wants to speak to in connection with the serious disorder and violence that has been affecting parts of London.

In addition Flickr is hosting the same photos so that the public have as many opportunities as possible to help the MPS identify those who committed violent and criminal acts on London's streets.

At 10.40hrs on Wednesday 10 August

Reassurance message from Ealing Borough

At 09.28hrs on Wednesday 10 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has provided updated advice specifically relating to businesses following disorder in London - Click this link

At 07.02hrs on Wednesday 10 August

Response to claims about the Met's approach to making arrests:

It is simply wrong to suggest officers were initially told not to actively arrest those involved in disorder.

As always the decision to make an arrest is down to the individual officer on the ground who must weigh up whether it is appropriate bearing in mind risks of further inflaming the crowd, wider operational requirements and our ability to gather evidence to arrest later.

Between Saturday night and Tuesday morning 525 arrests were made - 310 of which were overnight on Monday.

Officers continue to proactively arrest those involved in disorder both on the street and as a result of detective work through Operation Withern. There have been a total of 770 arrests so far.

At 04.44hrs on Wednesday 10 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has now arrested a total of 768 people in connection with violence, disorder and looting.

Since 21:00hrs on Tuesday 9 August, 81 arrests have been made across London for various offences.

These include:

- At approximately 23:00hrs, in a proactive operation, officers executed a search warrant at an address in Church Road, Harlesden, NW10. A mobile phone was found containing pictures of a looted shop and jewellery. A gold chain matching the photo on the phone was also found.

A man in his late teens / early 20s was arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods and is in custody.

- At 00:30hrs officers on patrol in West Ella Road, Harlesden, NW10 arrested 19 people on suspicion of conspiracy to commit burglary after they were seen standing by two transit vans appearing to be preparing to go looting.

The men, aged approximately between 18 and 30-years are currently in custody.

So far 167 people have been charged.

00.10 on Wednesday 10 August

Police are appealing for members of the public only to contact the Operation Withern Major Investigation Team number (020 8345 4142) if they have specific information about those individuals who have been
involved in the violence and disorder that has occurred across London over the past few days.

The team are receiving a significant number of calls that are not directly related to their investigation. These calls are impeding the ability of those with relevant information to get through to officers.

You may wish to consider subscribing to the official police messaging system 'Neighbourhood Link'. To subscribe to this service please visit: www.neighbourhoodlink.met.police.uk

Those who wish to make a comment about the policing of the disorder can do so online at www.met.police.uk/contacts/ In the event of an emergency, call the emergency number 999

In the event of a non emergency, call the police on non emergency number 101.

Updates and Advice from Tuesday 9 August

23.50 on Tuesday 9 August

Police investigating the large fire at Reeves Furniture store in Reeves Corner, Croydon, as part of the disorder in the area on Monday 8 August have arrested a man in connection with the incident.

Detectives from Operation Withern arrested the 21-year-old this evening, Tuesday 9 August, and he is being held at a south London police station.

He was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

There have been no other arrests in connection with this incident at this stage.

A total of 685 arrests have been made in connection with the incidents of disorder seen across London in the last few days. Of those, 111 individuals have been charged.

Breakdown of charges:

= 69 x burglary
= 13 x Public Order Act offences
= 2 x assault on police
= 3 x robbery
= 5 x possession of offensive weapons
= 6 x handling stolen goods
= 1 x criminal damage
= 1 x going equipped
= 3 x drug offences
= 8 x miscellaneous other offences

This remains a constantly developing picture.

21.10 on Tuesday 9 August

Police appeal for witnesses to violent assault in Ealing

19.00 on Tuesday 9 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has provided advice specifically relating to businesses following disorder in London - Click this link

18.46hrs on Tuesday 9 August

The serious criminal unrest experienced in London over the past three days has left dozens of officers injured, some seriously.

As of 17.30hrs today, 111 officers have been reported injured after having experienced unprecedented violence directed at them as they have been policing London, striving to protect the public, local communities and property.

Many officers are still undergoing hospital treatment, some requiring surgery. Injuries range from fractured bones, serious head injuries, concussion, cuts and sprains, even injured eyes from smashed and thrown glass.

Officers have been attacked with bricks, bottles, planks of wood and other missiles. In some incidents, officers have been hit by motor vehicles, seriously risking their lives and those of the public.

Five police dogs have been injured as they have undertaken their duties in dealing with the unrest. Linpol Luke, also known as Obi, sustained a serious head injury from a thrown brick and requires further treatment. Marshfield Mia was injured after being hit by a thrown bottle. Both dogs were injured on duty on Sunday. On Monday, Minstrel Blaze, Quirk Ruby and Zach all sustained injuries, including broken teeth and cuts from thrown missiles.

Mounted section officers have played a vital role and after successive shifts facing hostile crowds the officers and their horses are tired yet no injuries have been sustained and they will continue to play their part in keeping London safe.

DAC Steve Kavanagh said:

“The level of violence directed against our officers as they have bravely done their duty to keep London safe is unprecedented. We have over 50 officers who have needed treatment - some may even require surgery. Our dog units and mounted section have faced tough conditions and some have suffered injuries also.

“We are dealing with dangerous criminals; men and women, boys and girls, who are willing to put lives at risk and target the very people that are here to keep our communities safe.

“But this is not just about my officers who continue to do their very best. This is also about the damage these thugs are doing to our neighbourhoods. Local shops and businesses have been ruined, householders have been left homeless and great damage done to our local services and infrastructure.

“We are now undertaking an operation to identify those responsible and to bring them to justice. We will not tolerate this dangerous behaviour.”

Anyone with information relating to the violent unrest experienced in London is urged to contact the incident room hotline, to report any information which may assist investigators as they bring arrests against those responsible for looting, disorder and violence. Call the incident room hotline on 0208 345 4142 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

18.15hrs on Tuesday 9 August

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Steve Kavanagh said: "This morning was a dark morning to wake to in London. No one should wake in this wonderful city of ours to see such scenes of devastation and violence. There are many individual stories over the last three days that have yet to come out - the loss of homes, properties and even livelihoods.

"Last night the Met faced scenes of unprecendented violence and disorder, from North to South and East to West in our Capital. We were stretched.

"Today what I would like to say to Londoners is the Met has worked hard throughout the night to make every officer possible available to be out on our streets. During a 24 hour period we will have 16,000 officers. We will be out there tonight doing our very best for you.

"The Commissioner and his top team worked through the night to make sure we have seriously considered every tactical option available to us. We will consider every option we have to keep you safe.

"I'd repeat my urge for parents to know where your children are - do not let them get caught up in this thrill seeking thuggery. If you are out tonight please help us - give us the space we need to work in.

"If you have been one of those people who believe you are above the law and have the right to rob, damage and scare people let me make it clear our investigation team is determined to come and track you down.

"I would like to remark upon the considerable bravery and resilience shown by members of our community overnight. People intervening to make their disgust known about the activities of these mindless yobs. Our officers, and crew from Fire and Ambulance all demonstrated their bravery, as they were attacked whilst trying to protect our streets."

18.00hrs on Tuesday 9 August

We welcome the most recent update from the Independent Police Complaints Commission into the investigation of the fatal shooting of Mr Duggan, and the additional facts this places in the public domain.

It is in the interest of everyone, the family of Mr Duggan, the public and the police, that the IPCC are able to establish to all the facts of the events of last Thursday so that there is a complete understanding of what happened. We appreciate that it is frustrating for people to have to wait for the outcome of the investigation but it is important that the investigation is full and thorough, and the MPS doing everything possible to assist with that process. In accordance with post incident procedures the CO19 officers involved are not currently performing an operational role.

We would also like to take this opportunity to appeal for calm, Mr Duggan's family have publicly stated that they do not in anyway condone the violence we have witnessed on the streets of London. There can be no excuses for this behaviour.

At 16.50hrs on Tuesday 9 August

There have been 563 arrests to date and 105 people charged.

At 16.05hrs on Tuesday 9 August

The serious criminal unrest experienced in London over the past three days has left many officers injured, some seriously.

As of this morning, 48 officers have been injured having experienced unprecedented violence directed at them as they have been policing London, striving to protect the public, local communities and property.

Many officers are still undergoing hospital treatment, some requiring surgery. Injuries range from fractured bones, serious head injuries, concussion, cuts and sprains, even injured eyes from smashed and thrown glass.

Officers have been attacked with bricks, bottles, planks of wood and other missiles. In some incidents, officers have been hit by motor vehicles, seriously risking their lives and those of the public.

Four police dogs have been injured as they have undertaken their duties in dealing with the unrest. Linpol Luke, also known as Obi, sustained a serious head injury from a thrown brick and requires further treatment. Marshfield Mia was injured after being hit by a thrown bottle. Both dogs were injured on duty on Sunday. On Monday, Minstrel Blaze, Quirk Ruby and Zach all sustained injuries, including broken teeth and cuts from thrown missiles.

Mounted section officers have played a vital role and after successive shifts facing hostile crowds the officers and their horses are tired yet no injuries have been sustained and they will continue to play their part in keeping London safe.

DAC Steve Kavanagh said: “The level of violence directed against our officers as they have bravely done their duty to keep London safe is unprecedented. We have over 50 officers who have needed treatment - some may even require surgery. Our dog units and mounted section have faced tough conditions and some have suffered injuries also.

“We are dealing with dangerous criminals; men and women, boys and girls, who are willing to put lives at risk and target the very people that are here to keep our communities safe.

“But this is not just about my officers who continue to do their very best. This is also about the damage these thugs are doing to our neighbourhoods. Local shops and businesses have been ruined, householders have been left homeless and great damage done to our local services and infrastructure.

“We are now undertaking an operation to identify those responsible and to bring them to justice. We will not tolerate this dangerous behaviour.”

Anyone with information relating to the violent unrest experienced in London is urged to contact the incident room hotline, to report any information which may assist investigators as they bring arrests against those responsible for looting, disorder and violence. Incident room hotline: 0208 345 4142.

Imagery of those involved in the unrest is available to view on the Met's website or on our Flickr channel

At 15.35hrs on Tuesday 9 August

A dedicated webpage has gone live displaying the images of people the Metropolitan Police Services wants to speak to in connection with the serious disorder and violence that has been affecting parts of London.

15.24hrs on Tuesday 9 August

Following the dreadful scenes that have played out over the last three days we have been contacted by many people offering to assist us. The Met is facing a significant challenge in responding to the unprecedented levels of violence we have seen on the streets of London.

The link is http://www.met.police.uk/disordersuspects/

In addition Flickr is hosting the same photos so that the public have as many opportunities as possible to help the MPS identify those who committed violent and criminal acts on London's streets.

The link is
http://www.flickr.com/photos/metropolitanpolice/sets/72157627267892973/

If anyone recognises individuals in the photographs or has any information about the violence and disorder that has occurred they should contact the Major Investigation Team on 020 8345 4142. Alternatively anyone can report crime and provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

15.24hrs on Tuesday 9 August

Following the dreadful scenes that have played out over the last three days we have been contacted by many people offering to assist us. The Met is facing a significant challenge in responding to the unprecedented levels of violence we have seen on the streets of London.

During the course of the next 24 hours the Met will have deployed 16,000 police officers.

14.43hrs on Tuesday 9 August

A total of 525 arrests have been made in connection with the incidents of disorder seen across London in the last few days. Of those, 99 individuals have been charged.

From 16.00hrs yesterday (8 August) into the early hours 310 people were arrested following the outbreaks of disorder seen in various parts of the capital.

Breakdown of charges:

= 63 x burglary
= 8 x Public Order Act offences
= 2 x assault on police
= 3 x robbery
= 4 x possession of offensive weapons
= 5 x handling stolen goods
= 1 x criminal damage
= 1 x going equipped
= 3 x drug offences
= 9 x miscellaneous other offences

Of the 32 cases heard at court, 18 of those individuals have been remanded in custody.

13:43hrs Tuesday 9 August

Cancellation of England vs Holland Football Match on Wednesday 10 August

Following a discussion with the FA the advice given is based on the fact that the kick off time for this match fits within the time period that we have seen disorder happening across the Capital, and within a similar area.

Groups of fans would need to travel through the Capital during this peak period and this is something we are keen to avoid. We do not need the additional burden of a crowd of 80,000 people on our streets tomorrow night.

Every officer on duty must be deployed to protect life, our communities and properties.

Over the next 24 hour period, we will have in the region of 16,000 officers on duty. Our custody suites are full and we are must prioritise processing those prisoners remaining from the 450 arrested to date and tracking down those outstanding.

As we go through the next few days we will continue to review the level of officers required.

We thank the FA and the Dutch FA for their cooperation at this very difficult time.

12.41hrs Tuesday 9 August

Statement from Temporary Commissioner Tim Godwin outside COBR this morning - Key Points;

As Temporary Commissioner Tim Godwin left the Cabinet Office Briefing Room (COBR) meeting this morning he made a brief statement to waiting media, here are the key points of what he said:

The (COBR) meeting was very positive in terms of responding to what is an unprecedented level of violence in London and elsewhere overnight.

There was lots of support for the officers and community workers bravely tackling the situation.

The scale of it means we’ve already more than doubled the usual number of officers on the streets, and have the support of Government in bringing in as much mutual aid as necessary.

There were far too many young people on the streets last night, in situations that were dangerous and violent. I urge parents and guardians to keep them in tonight. We will be very robust in our policing of any disorder tonight.

This is not a game - this is criminality, burglary and violence. We will pursue everyone involved in this and make sure they are brought to justice, with the significant investigative assets we have in place.

It’s a sad day for London and sad events overnight. I’m extremely proud of the men and women of the Metropolitan Police Service for what they did last night, and saddened for all those victims who’ve lost homes or businesses overnight.

There can be no excuses for this behaviour. There are issues and grievances being talked about and that is a conversation that we, politicians and others need to have with communities. But that does not excuse the behaviour we’ve seen over the last few days.

We will be out there in greater numbers tonight and for as long as necessary.

More importantly, we have your images and will be asking Londoners to identify those involved in criminality and coming to arrest you in the coming days, and if necessary, weeks and months.

Following a specific question, he stated: There are no plans for the army to get involved.

12.27hrs on Tuesday 9 August

The first of many images images of suspects are being released by detectives investigating serious disorder and violence in parts of London.

These images are also available on our Flickr channel.

10.42hrs on Tuesday 9 August

Police are appealing to residents in the areas to the south east of a business park in Enfield to remain indoors with windows and doors shut following a fire at the location.

Officers and London Fire Brigade (LFB) were called to reports of the fire at an electrical goods distribution centre in Solar Way Enfield at 2349 last night ( 8 August )

LFB sent 11 fire engines to deal with the fire that has now been put out and is in the process of being dampened down.

However a plume of smoke is still travelling south east from the site of the fire and while there is nothing to suggest the fumes contain harmful substances as a precaution police are asking residents to stay indoors.

Police and London Fire Brigade are liaising to investigate the cause of the fire which is being treated as suspicious at this stage.

08.46hrs on Tuesday 9 August

Last night was the worst the MPS has seen in current memory for unacceptable levels of widespread looting, fires and disorder.

The MPS responded with the largest policing operation of the three nights to date (approximately 2,500 officers in addition to 3,500 officers already on boroughs). This included receiving aid from other forces and using armoured vehicles to support officers on the ground to clear areas of trouble.

A significant number of arrests were made (well over 200 overnight - in excess of 450 over the three nights), leading to all MPS cells being full and prisoners being taken to surrounding forces.

Those involved in criminality should be under no illusion that we will pursue you. We have been making arrests all evening and have a team working during the night examining CCTV images. We will follow up evidence in the coming days in order to bring anyone else responsible for criminal acts to justice.

Disturbing levels of violence were directed at officers again, leading to 44 being injured last night, which included an officer being driven at resulting in broken bones, and another officer receiving an eye injury that is likely to need surgery (separate incident).

14 members of the public were also hurt, including a man in his 60's who has life threatening head injuries.

Over the last 24 hr period we have taken almost 400% more 999 calls than normal (5,400 emergency 999 calls normally compared to almost 20,800).

Trident has launched an investigation after a 26 year old man was found with a gun shot wound in Croydon. He is currently in hospital in a serious condition.

Officers and staff continue to work long hours at short notice in very challenging circumstances.

We continue to have the plans and resources in place to respond to any further disorder, deal with normal policing across the city and keep Londoners safe.

05.39hrs on Tuesday 9 August

At approximately 02:50hrs on Tuesday 9 August a male police officer was injured by a car in Fulton Road, Brent. He has been taken to a north London hospital where he remains in a stable condition.

A second male police officer was also injured in the incident. He was taken to a north London hospital with a minor injury.

It is believed the injury occurred when police stopped some cars (not known how many) as their occupants were suspected of being involved in looting of a nearby electrical store. It is believed the driver of one of the cars drove away injuring the police officer in the process.

Three people were later stopped by police and arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

03.51hrs on Tuesday 9 August

So far, 334 people have been arrested, 69 people have been charged and two cautioned.

Please be advised that this is a constantly changing picture.

03.47hrs on Tuesday 9 August

The MPS has not asked for all major events in London to be postponed.

Any request for advice by event organisers is assessed locally and local decisions made.

02.27hrs on Tuesday 9 August

The MPS has introduced additional tactics using armoured police vehicles to push back in excess of 150 people in the Lavender Hill area where substantial disorder and damage was being caused to shops and local businesses.

The vehicles were used in support of officers on the ground and resulted in the disorder in Lavender Hill area being brought under control.

The success of this tactic means that we will consider its use elsewhere as required.

Police continue to be deployed across London and are actively tackling pockets of disorder.

Commander Christine Jones, said: "We are using tactics flexibly to respond to the disorder we are still seeing in different areas of the capital. Anyone involved in criminality should be under no illusion that we will pursue you. We have been making arrests all evening and have a team working during the night examining CCTV images. We will follow up evidence in the coming days in order to bring anyone else responsible for criminal acts to justice."

02.03hrs on Tuesday 9 August

So far, 239 people have been arrested, 45 people have been charged and one cautioned.

Please be advised that this is a constantly changing picture.

00.00hrs Tuesday 9 August

Officers are working across London to protect people and property following serious outbreaks of disorder in a number of London boroughs.

This includes:

Hackney, where 250 -300 people gathered in Pembury Estate, Hackney setting alight cars and throwing petrol bombs. In Mare Street, businesses were looted and officers contained the situation. Three officers were injured but their condition is not believed to be serious.

Newham, where there was looting in Stratford High Street.

Lewisham, where roaming groups of youths were involved in disorder in a number of locations.

Bethnal Green where more than 100 people looted a Tesco premises and two officers were injured.

Croydon, where fires are burning at a number of premises including a very large blaze at a Sofa factory.

Commander Christine Jones said: “The violence we have seen is simply inexcusable. Ordinary people have had their lives turned upside down by this mindless thuggery. The Met will ensure that those responsible will face the consequences of their actions and be arrested.”

The investigation into the disorder is continuing as we pursue those who have engaged in this appalling violence. So far, 225 people have been arrested and 36 people have been charged. Pleased be advised that this is a constantly changing picture.

As part of the ongoing operation to protect London, more than 1700 extra officers have been deployed tonight. Met officers are working alongside colleagues from City of London Police and British Transport Police.

Mutual aid has been received and is ongoing from:

· Thames Valley Police

· Kent

· Essex

· Hampshire

· Surrey

· Northamptonshire

· Cambridgeshire

· Suffolk

· Sussex

Twelve specially-trained public order units are included in the mutual aid provision.

Ongoing resilience and contingency planning is in place to ensure we can maintain our response.

Updates and Advice from Monday 8 August

21.00hrs on Monday 8 August - Statement from Temporary Commissioner Tim Godwin:

Firstly, can I say thank you for allowing me to make this statement.

We have to report, from what you can see in the media coverage, that there is a significant disorder breaking out in number of our communities across London.

As a result of that we have a lot of police officers on duty but I do urge parents to start contacting their children and ask where they are.

There are far too many spectators who are getting in the way of the police operations to tackle criminal thuggery and burglary.

I’m imploring that people start clearing the streets to enable officers to deal with the criminality that is occurring in front of them.

I understand grievances and there has been various debates about what the issues are that are making people commit these acts but what I have seen is pure violence and pure gratuity.

It is criminal damage and it is burglary. Myself and my officers will pursue all those engaged in criminality. We will put them in front of the courts and we will be asking the courts to send down significant sentences in relations to this form of activity.

There are many of thousands of young people in London who do not commit crime. We are seeing communities blighted by the actions of a few. I do ask people clear the way and allow us to arrest people.

We are going to be publishing lots of images of people who we have evidence of at this time in terms of criminal behaviour from CCTV and other footage.

I would ask Londoners once again, and normally Londoners do stand up together, to identify those people so we can arrest them.

Grievances, concerns and challenges in communities are things we should be talking about and are conversations we need to have.

It does not in anyway excuse the levels of violence and levels of damage. I can reassure Londoners that we have a lot of police officers out there.

We remain steadfast and determined. I have a lot of very brave officer who will continue to police this city. Just give us the space now to deal with these people.

19.00hrs on Monday 8 August

Looking ahead to this evening the MPS has additional officers on duty throughout the Capital to provide a highly visible and mobile presence on out streets.

The investigation - codenamed Operation Withern - is continuing apace and 215 arrests have been made in total since the disorder started on Saturday. Thousands of hours of CCTV are being reviewed by the team.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Steve Kavanagh said: "Our officers are out on duty across London, and we have extra resources policing the Capital. We will continue with this additional policing for as long as is necessary.

"Let me make it clear that people who are using current events as an excuse or cover to break the law, steal, attack police officers and cause fear to Londoners will not be tolerated by the vast majority of Londoners and us.

"Our investigation, which is massive in scope, is continuing. We are liaising with businesses and communities across London, including at a borough level to keep people up to date with what we are doing.

"I would ask Londoners if you know anything that may help us please get in touch with us via 020 8345 4142."

18.45hrs on Monday 8 August

Statement re family contact:

We are very sorry for the distress that has been caused to the family of Mark Duggan, especially because of the way in which his parents became aware of his death. It is always challenging when the police service has to ensure that an investigation is totally independent of them in order to sustain public confidence, and on occasion errors then occur in the hand over. Although immediate members of his family were told of Mr Duggan’s death, we accept that we did not inform his parents and it is clear that there are lessons that can be learned both by the MPS and the IPCC in this case.

On the night of Mr Duggan’s death the MPS sent specially trained Family Liaison Officers to the scene to meet with two members of Mr Duggan’s family. These FLOs agreed to the family members’ request that they tell Mr Duggan’s parents the news of his death themselves. The family liaison was then handed over to the IPCC Family Liaison Managers, who were fully briefed on what action had taken place. As is usual, from this point the MPS had no further on-going family liaison role and so were unaware of the concerns of Mr Duggan’s parents that they had not been formally notified by police of his death. Having become aware of these concerns we are contacting Mr Duggan’s parents via their lawyers and offering to meet with them.

17.45hrs on Monday 8 August

A total of 215 arrests have been made since the beginning of Operation Withern.

This figure includes 62 arrests made overnight 6/7 August and 153 overnight 7/8 August and throughout the morning of 8 August. Detainees are being held in custody suites across the MPS area.

Of those arrested, the youngest known recorded age is an 11-year-old male - who has since been charged with burglary.

The oldest person arrested is a 46-year-old man. He was arrested for burglary and has been bailed.

Of those arrested - for whom dates of birth have been provided - two were born in the 1960s, six in the 1970s, 49 in the 1980s and 98 in the 1990s.

As of 1500 hours the current situation regarding case disposal decisions for those in custody over the last 24 hours are as follows:

• 27 people have been charged so far. Of those:
• 17 charged with burglary (non-dwelling)
• 5 charged with violent disorder
• 3 charged with theft
• 1 for going equipped
• 1 for proceeds of crime act offences
• 2 cautioned
• 23 bailed
• 136 people are still in custody at this time

NB: The above figure totals 188 because we await full disposal figures at this time.

Crime scenes have been secured across many boroughs in the MPS; the most significant being in Tottenham, Enfield and Brixton. Investigators in Tottenham and elsewhere are working closely with LFB fire investigation teams regarding forensic retrieval.

The ongoing crime operation has deployed investigative teams across the MPS. Investigative teams are in the process of assessing and examining all relevant crime scenes and processing those people arrested in order to bring offenders to justice and secure best evidence.

The Operation Withern team is in contact with CPS regarding a co-ordinated criminal justice approach to the incidents of disorder..

17.10hrs on Monday 8 August

Police appeal for witnesses to hit and run in which officers were injured.

16.00hrs on Monday 8 August

Operation Withern is investigating the disorder and violence in parts of London over the weekend.

An incident room has been set up. Anyone with information should call the Major Investigation Team on 020 8345 4142.

The team is being led by Detective Superintendent John Sweeney, and is made up of detectives from the Homicide and Serious Crime Command, specialist investigators from the Public Order Branch and police support staff.

At 16.00hrs on Monday 8 August: Information for Businesses

During the evening and into the night of Saturday 6th August 2011 public disorder and criminal damage to residential and business premises ensued within the London borough of Haringey. This has been widely reported in the media both at local, regional and national level.

On Sunday 7th August 2011 a second night of disorder resulted in further criminal damage to shops, residential buildings and vehicles being badly damaged in the London boroughs of Enfield, Waltham Forest and Lambeth.

The Metropolitan Police Service has dealt with several incidents of ‘copycat criminal activity’ across London which has resulted in over 100 arrests for criminal offences. The MPS is aware of the impact this is having on the business community and is making every effort to combat further criminal activity by increasing the levels of high visibility patrols across London.

Criminal activity has taken place across a number of areas. There is no intelligence of specific targeting of identified business premises.

The Operation Withern team is continuing their investigation to identify those people responsible for the violence, disorder and crime we have seen to ensure that they are brought to justice.

You may notice an increase in the number of police officers in your area and this should not be cause for alarm.

You may wish to take the following precautionary measures.

1. Where possible retail premises should be suitably staffed with security guards
2. Ensure staff report any suspicious activity to security and/or police
3. Consider regular checks of the building and surrounding area
4. Identify areas that are vulnerable to forced entry
5. Make sure all service doors are kept locked and secure when not in use
6. Ensure your CCTV system fully operational
7. In case of an emergency is there a record of the names of keyholders who can be contacted
8. Consider removing high value goods from display windows overnight
9. Consider keeping as little cash as possible on the premises
10. Ensure that your premises are secure and if fitted your alarm systems are fully operational
11. In the event of a non emergency, call the police on non emergency number 101
10. In the event of an emergency, call the emergency number 999
11. If you have any information you wish to provide to police anonymously you can contact the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Operation Withern is investigating the disorder and violence in parts of London over the weekend. An incident room has been set up. Anyone with information should call the major investigation team on 020 8345 4142.

The MPS has extra resources on duty across the capital. We are carefully monitoring any intelligence and ensuring we have our resources in the right places to support the ongoing policing plan. We will continue to respond to the needs of London’s communities and deal with any incidents of criminality.

You may also wish to consider subscribing to the official police messaging system ‘Neighbourhood Link’. To subscribe to this service please visit: www.neighbourhoodlink.met.police.uk

06.19hrs on Monday 8 August

Updating the number of arrests and number of officers injured Commander Christine Jones, said:

"Officers responding to sporadic disorder in a number of boroughs made more than 100 arrests throughout last night and early this morning.

"This is in addition to the 61 arrests made on Saturday night and Sunday morning.

"So far there have been 16 charges (burglary, points and blades, theft, POCA, violent disorder), 11 awaiting CPS advice, 17 bailed, 1 caution, 1 sectioned under the Mental Health Act and there are 15 ongoing enquiries.

"Officers are shocked at the outrageous level of violence directed against them. At least nine officers were injured overnight in addition to the 26 injured on Saturday night.

"We will not tolerate this disgraceful violence. The investigation continues to bring these criminals to justice."

02.22hrs on Monday 8 August

Police are tonight responding to copycat criminal activity across London and are deploying officers to tackle it.

There has been looting in a number of boroughs in north, east and south London by small and mobile groups. Groups of youths continue to attack police officers and a number of police vehicles have been damaged.

Three officers have been taken to hospital after being hit by a fast moving vehicle at approximately 00:45hrs. The officers were in the process of making arrests in Chingford Mount, Waltham Forest, in connection with youths looting a shop. Two officers are believed to have superficial injuries and the other has an injury to his knee.

Earlier tonight in Walthamstow Central more than 30 youths, many in masks, vandalised and looted a number shops including BHS. Officers attended the area and the situation is currently under control. Groups of youths are continuing to target shops in Waltham Forest and officers are on scene.

In Brixton there has been disorder and looting. London Fire Brigade (LFB) are dealing with a fire at Footlocker on Brixton High Road.

Rival gangs attended Kings College Hospital after two victims of minor stabbings were admitted resulting in a fight. The hospital has brought in additional security for the remainder of the night and officers remain on scene dealing with the initial stabbings.

In Enfield Town Centre and surrounding areas the disorder has been contained. Resources are in the area and the High Street remains cordoned off to contain the disorder.

Approximately 50 youths congregated in Oxford Circus. Officers attended the area and the situation is currently under control.

In Islington there were reports of a group causing a disturbance and a police vehicle windscreen was smashed.

A Tesco store in Ponders End was vandalised and items were stolen.

As a result of quick and decisive action by police numerous arrests have been made at various locations. We await further details.

Commander Christine Jones, said: "This is a challenging situation with small pockets of violence, looting and disorder breaking out on a number of boroughs.

"We have deployed units across London and continue to move quickly to deal with any reports of criminality as soon as possible.

"Officers are once again putting themselves in harm's way to arrest those responsible and prevent further crimes. I am proud of their dedication and bravery.

"I, along with the vast majority of Londoners, condemn this mindless criminality. It serves no purpose and only results in the destruction people's livelihoods and communities."

Updates and Advice from Sunday 7 August

23.04hrs on Sunday 7 August

Operation Withern is now dealing with 56 arrests. We believe that 51 arrests were made in connection with the disorder last night, and 5 have been made for offences committed today.

At this stage we cannot give an exact breakdown of what the arrests are for - the majority were for burglary, and other offences include violent disorder, robbery, theft and handling stolen goods.


19.53hrs on Sunday 7 August

The Metropolitan Police Service has an operation in place across London tonight, with additional resources geographically deployed on high visibility patrols.

Additional officers are on duty in Tottenham, and cordons remain in place around the primary crime scene.

A team of senior officers responsible for the operation will be on duty throughout the night to manage our operation and ensure we have a swift response to any reported incidents.

Officers from Haringey Borough have met with members of the local community and that dialogue will continue. Community representatives from across London came together today at New Scotland Yard to be briefed on our operation so far, and so we could receive their feedback.

Commander Christine Jones said: “We do have extra resources out tonight on duty across the Capital. We are carefully monitoring any intelligence and ensuring we have our resources in the right places. No one wants to see a repeat of the scenes that we witnessed last night in Tottenham.

“Our investigation team are continuing their work and those people responsible for the violence, disorder and crime we saw last night will be identified. Anyone else who thinks they can use the events from last night as an excuse to commit crime will be met by a robust response from us.

“If you know anything about those who broke the law please let us know.”

19.17hrs on Sunday 7 August

Operation Withern is now dealing with 55 arrests. We believe that 51 arrests were made in connection with the disorder last night, and 4 have been made for offences committed today.

At this stage we cannot give an exact breakdown of what the arrests are for - the majority were for burglary, and other offences include violent disorder, robbery, theft and handling stolen goods.

16.20 hrs on Sunday 7 August

A major investigation team has been launched by the Met following the disorder in Tottenham last night - the investigation is codenamed Operation Withern.

The team is being led by Detective Superintendent John Sweeney, and is made up of detectives from the Homicide and Serious Crime Command, specialist investigators from the Public Order Branch, and police support staff.

The team is currently dealing with the 48 people who were arrested during the course of the disorder.

Officers are in the process of reviewing hours of CCTV and taking witness statements. There is a primary crime scene that runs from Monument Way to Lansdowne Road. Detectives are on the scene scoping out the number of buildings and businesses broken into and damaged. This will take some time, and we cannot currently estimate how long.

Forensic examiners will slowly and painstakingly work their way through this crime scene seeking to retrieve as much evidence as possible. We thank the local community for their continued patience and apologise for the inconvience caused, but processing this crime scene properly is of the utmost importance to our investigation.

Commander Adrian Hanstock said: "If you have been a victim of crime during the disorder please go to your local police station and let them know, we want to hear from you. Detectives from Operation Withern will then be in touch with you to make sure that the crime is investigated.

"Anyone who has any information about those responsible for these offences that rocked the heart of the local community please get in touch with us. The disorder and violence we saw last night was pure criminality and cannot be justified. We are determined to arrest those responsible.

"If you know of anyone who was involved or may be planning a repeat of the scenes we saw last night, please let us know. Any information can be passed to police anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

We are aware of various reports on social media networks of further disorder being planned and any intelligence will be assessed and actioned. A policing operation is in place across London and local officers are on the streets in Tottenham.

Total number of arrests is 48. There have been no new arrests, but the rise from 42 to 48 is because the Investigation Team has now collated the exact details from the numerous custody suites in London.

15.00hrs on Sunday 7 August

Commander Adrian Hanstock made the following statement at New Scotland Yard at 15.00hrs today: "There has been some speculation on social media sites and we are actively posting accurate information to correct this. What we would ask for is anyone who has information about those who committed these offences or anyone intending to, then please let us know and help us to protect your community.

"We continue to work closely with the local community in Tottenham and are grateful for their assistance. We recognise that they abhor the levels of violence and crime shown, however it is not the wider community who are committing these offences and they do not represent local people's views. We also continue to work closely with a number of partner agencies, including IAG, local authorities and the GLA.

"Officers from Tottenham are on the streets and will remain there, working alongside the community to restore calm to the area. Should we have any indication of further violence or other offending, we have a
policing plan in place and will respond appropriately.

"A wider policing operation is in place which has seen extra resources being made available to support communities and the investigation which has commenced to examine the criminal matters. There is an extensive crime scene and this will take some time to examine thoroughly. 42 people have already been arrested for a variety of offences, and we are actively examining CCTV footage with a view to making further arrests.

"We recognise public concern in relation to the shooting of Mark Duggan and because of this, it is absolutely right that the IPCC independently investigate the circumstances. The community clearly want this and deserve it."

Sunday 7 August

Last night’s disorder and violence in Tottenham is completely unacceptable. The behaviour by a criminal minority put police officers, fire brigade personnel and the public at significant risk.

The death of Mr. Duggan is extremely regrettable and will be the subject of an independent investigation by the IPCC. It is absolutely tragic that someone has died, but that does not give a criminal minority the right to destroy businesses and people livelihoods and steal from their local community.

There was no indication that the protest would deteriorate into the levels of criminal and violent disorder that we saw. We believe that certain elements, who were not involved with the vigil, took the opportunity to commit disorder and physically attack police officers, verbally abuse fire brigade personnel and destroy vehicles and buildings. We do not believe that this is something that the vast majority of law abiding citizens in Tottenham would condone or would want.

As the disorder developed, we immediately deployed, but such was the level of violence against police officers that we were also supported by officers from surrounding forces, as is in line with our planned contingency as would be expected for such a significant incident.

Our officers were subjected to bottles, petrol bombs and other missiles being thrown at them.

Our priority will always be to try to preserve life, with the numbers of people on the street and violence being directed at the police and fire service this had to remain our priority. We are aware that a number of shops were looted and this is very regrettable. We are very aware of how disruptive and costly this will be for large and small businesses and the negative impact on the local community.

We have recovered excellent CCTV and those who committed disorder and criminal acts will be identified and held account for their actions. We would appeal to anyone who has information about those who may have been involved in the disorder to contact police.

As a result of last night's disorder 26 police officers were injured, two remain in hospital. There have been 42 arrests so far for offences including violent disorder, burglary and theft.