Armed officers to patrol UK’s largest Pride festival after Berlin attack
Armed officers will be deployed at the UK’s biggest Pride festival in Brighton, police said, following a deadly attack at the event in Berlin.
Defense Secretary Wes Streeting has condemned the “absolutely horrific” van and knife attack in the German capital that left one person dead and at least 29 injured.
Suspect Abdul Ballout, who reportedly had ties to the so-called Islamic State group, was shot dead by police on Sunday following a nearly 24-hour manhunt. The suspect is believed to have driven a minibus into festivalgoers, then attacked others with a machete.
The distribution took place a week before the Brighton and Hove festival, which was attended by an estimated 500,000 people.
A spokesperson for Sussex Police said: “As we look forward to Brighton and Hove Pride, I want to reassure those attending, as well as residents, businesses and visitors across the city, that their safety remains our top priority.
“We will be working tirelessly throughout this week and weekend to keep everyone safe and ensure an effective police operation is carried out, building on months of extensive planning with event organisers, Brighton and Hove City Council and other partners.
“Specialist teams, including uniformed police, plainclothes police and armed police, will be deployed throughout the city and all form part of our comprehensive plans to control this activity.
“We encourage everyone attending Pride to enjoy the celebrations, look out for each other, and report any concerns.
“If something is not right, speak to one of our officers or a security guard. In an emergency, always call 999.”
Bella Sankey, leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, said in a post on the council’s Facebook page: “We are deeply saddened by the attacks on Berlin Pride and our thoughts are with everyone affected.
“We stand in solidarity with the LGBTQI+ community and, as we look forward to Brighton & Hove Pride this weekend, we want to reassure everyone attending that we are working closely with Brighton & Hove Pride, Sussex Police and our other partners to keep everyone safe.
“We look forward to Pride being a celebration of diversity, joy and, above all, the unity of our community.”
Mr Streeting suggested the attack in Berlin showed why Pride events were still necessary.
He added that such events in the UK were already “always well policed” and struck the right balance between public safety and allowing people to celebrate.
