Met to deploy cutting-edge technology at north London derby

The Met will deploy Live Facial Recognition (LFR) at this Sunday’s north London derby as part of a high-tech policing operation designed to keep fans safe.

LFR will be in place at two locations on the approach to the Emirates Stadium, where Arsenal host Tottenham.

Officers will also use live-streaming-enabled body-worn video, which feeds high-quality footage from officers on the ground straight to the control room. This provides real-time intelligence so officers can respond more quickly and effectively to any issues that arise.

Some specially trained officers at the stadium will have SelectaDNA tagging spray. When used during disorder, the spray leaves a unique marker on offenders, which can be detected later under UV light, providing forensic evidence to identify individuals involved in criminality well after they have left the match.

Sunday’s LFR deployment will ensure those wanted for offences are on their way to a cell before they have the chance to potentially cause harm at the match.

Since the start of 2024, the Met has taken more than 1,300 dangerous offenders off the streets of London using LFR, of which more than 1,000 have been charged or cautioned.

Among these arrests are more than 100 individuals allegedly involved in serious violence against women and girls, for offences such as strangulation, stalking, domestic abuse and rape.

These high-tech measures are designed to prevent crime and keep everyone safe, so fans can focus on enjoying the match.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner James Harman, who is leading the policing operation, said:

“The safety of those attending football matches in London is our priority, and we want everyone to enjoy the game.

"This is why it is important that we make the best use of available technology to support officers to do their job more effectively.

"That allows us to keep the public safe, prevent crime and disorder, and respond efficiently to any incidents.”

Lindsey Chiswick, lead for LFR for the Met and nationally, said:

“Live Facial Recognition is a game-changing technology that helps officers locate people we want to speak to – such as those who are wanted or have court-imposed conditions.

"It is deployed on a case-by-case basis and where there is intelligence to suggest a threat to public safety.

We will continue to consider the use of LFR at events, dependent on the intelligence we hold, to ensure an effective and proportionate approach.”

For further information on LFR, click here: Live Facial Recognition | Metropolitan Police.