In a matter of hours Edmonton has once again lived up to its reputation as being one of the most dangerous areas of London with two stabbings,
The Metropolitan police has confirmed that Officers were initially called at 18:50hrs to College Close, N18 to reports of a teenager suffering a stab wound. On arrival they discovered a 15-year-old boy with potentially life-threatening injuries. He was taken to an east London hospital where he continues to receive treatment. Two males have been arrested in connection with the incident. They have been taken to north east London police stations where they remain in custody.
In an unconnected incident officers were called to a reported stabbing at 19:50hrs along Victoria Road, N9. A man in his 50s was taken to an east London hospital with non life-threatening injuries.
Officers are now appealing for anyone with information about either incident to contact Enfield CID on 020 8345 4404.
Following the two incidents, and the stabbing of Steven Grisales in Edmonton on Wednesday 31 August, Enfield's Borough Commander, Chief Superintendent Dave Tucker, said: "Our officers are working hard to piece together what happened last night and trace those responsible.
"Despite the understandable concerns and fears of local residents in Edmonton it is essential to recognise that Enfield remains a safe borough and, in reality, only a very small proportion of residents and visitors are affected by crime.
"Crime in Enfield has fallen over the last eight years and we have seen the most significant reductions in violent offences and serious assaults as well as gun and knife crime.
"At this stage there is no direct link between the two stabbing incidents and we retain an open mind regarding a possible link between the murder of Steven Grisales and the incident in College Close.
"We carry out specific activities to tackle this type of offending. One noticeable initiative involves the use of mobile metal detectors to prevent knife and weapon crime. These portable airport-style scanners are used at strategic locations across the borough, such as bus terminals, train stations and other places where intelligence tells us groups of people congregate to commit anti-social behaviour. Our intention is to disrupt those committing criminal acts, as well as identifying and protecting those who may feel vulnerable and carry weapons as a form of self-defence.
"We invite our local advisors, the Independent Advisory Group (members of the community who critically monitor our work and activities) to observe these operations on a regular basis. With their assistance we are able to deliver a strong message that we are there to protect the vulnerable and arrest those with criminal intentions.
"We also visit local schools to raise awareness of the impact of knife crime. We provide practical advice about personal safety and explain the consequences of carrying a knife. A split second decision can change lives forever, result in a criminal record and impact on future prospects and employment. Enfield has one of the largest Safer Schools units in London, with a dedicated team led by a Chief Inspector working closely with the local education authority.
"We also carry out targeted stop and search operations which are effective as a deterrent and also work with other agencies to provide worthwhile activities for our young people to get involved in and fill their time responsibly. We recognise that stop and search is an emotive issue but it does achieve results and ultimately can save lives."
