A generation of Hugh Grant rom-coms has lead to an unrealistic romanticisation of the Kensington and Chelsea areas. A recent rise in violent crime, however, has left the reputation rocky.

 

Last month, two men were shot in separate drive-by shootings in Notting Hill. According to the Metropolitan police, the shootings were unrelated incidents but both victims were left hospitalised and in serious conditions. Witnesses say that shots were fired from a “people carrier-type vehicle” that came “from out of nowhere” but no have arrests have been made.

 

Similarly, last May raids in Notting Hill lead to eight suspected drug dealers arrested. As part of the ominously named ‘Operation Capulet’, the raids were intended to target youth violence and gang related criminality in the community. Six males and two females were subsequently arrested and a large total of class A and B drugs, weaponry, mobile phones and quantities of cash were seized from various addresses.

 

The incidents were — the police insisted — unrelated; a fact which did nothing to assure the well-off locals of the area.

 

“Today’s series of warrants and arrests are as a direct result of a recent spate of violent incidents in Notting Hill” said Chief Superintendent Adrian Roberts, Borough Commander of Kensington and Chelsea Police in an official statement to the public. “I want to re-iterate that Kensington and Chelsea is one of the safest places to live in the capital and we will not tolerate any threat that could undermine that; and that includes drug dealing or violence on our streets.”

 

The two victims are said to be in stable but serious condition and the arrestees remain in custody.

 

Nevin Holness