Story 7
Brixton Riots of April 10 1981
Background
I joined the Metropolitan Police as a cadet at the age of 16 in 1978. By 1980, as a Constable, my first assignment was at Vine Street Police Station near Soho, London. This period was particularly challenging due to rising tensions between the police, the Black community and various segments of society.
Account of the Riots
On April 10 1981, I was abruptly awakened after completing an early shift and ordered to report to the station to assist with policing the riots that were beginning in Brixton. My account was later featured in Sir Steve McQueen’s BAFTA-winning documentary, The Uprising (2022), available on BBC iPlayer.
Our mission was to police the riots, and minimise property damage. Whilst packed onto a coach with colleagues hurtling to Brixton, I could hear overt racist comments and saw aggressive behaviour which ripped through the coach. I felt isolated and confused as the rioters targeted me, throwing petrol bombs at my coach.
The following three days involved intense riot control, with over 2,500 officers deployed, resulting in approximately 300 injuries and £7.5 million in property damage. This experience taught me how to work under extreme pressure and underscored the need for resilience, courage and representation within the police force.
Reflections
The Brixton Riots and New Cross march, significantly shaped my development as a police officer, particularly as a black officer. I firmly believe that the Metropolitan Police needs more minority ethnic officers to accurately reflect and understand the communities they serve. Representation and community engagement are essential for effective policing, driving my advocacy for improvements within the police force.
Here I am as a 16yr old Police Cadet on expedition, having left home, away from my family for the next two years until I became a Police Constable, walking the beat in central London.
1981 image captured in the BAFTA winning documentary ‘Uprising’
My account/testimonies of the New Cross Fire march
Rogan Productions wins a BAFTA for ‘Uprising’