Armed police will be deployed at Brighton Pride, the UK's largest Pride festival, following an attack on the Berlin event, police have confirmed. The Brighton & Hove festival, which attracts approximately 500,000 people, is scheduled for this coming Saturday and Sunday.
The decision comes after a van and stabbing attack in the German capital left one person dead and injured at least 29 others. The suspect in the Berlin attack, Abdul Ballout, who reportedly had links to so-called Islamic State, was shot dead by police on Sunday.
A spokesperson for Sussex Police stated that their top priority is the safety of attendees, residents, businesses, and visitors across the city. Uniformed police, plain-clothed officers, and specialist teams, including armed officers, will be deployed across Brighton for the event.
UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting condemned the "absolutely horrific" Berlin attack. Brighton & Hove City Council leader, Bella Sankey, expressed deep sadness over the attacks and reassured attendees that authorities are working closely to ensure safety.