About 7,000 police officers will be on duty with a million visitors expected.
Met officers drawn from local teams as well as specialist units will be supported by colleagues from the City of London Police and the British Transport Police, said Ms Brenyah. Protective boards have been attached to some buildings in the area.
“As a police officer on duty in previous years, I’ve seen both the carnival I experienced in my youth, but also the other side of the same event when, later in the day, the atmosphere changes in some parts, with floats and costumes giving way to serious violence,” said Ms Brenyah.
“Officers will be maintaining a vigilant presence in an effort to identify and intervene against anyone intent on committing violence.
“They will use their search powers where there are grounds to do so in order to take weapons off the streets.”
The event’s busy streets and dense crowds give sexual offenders more opportunities to target women and girls, Ms Brenyah said.
“We would urge anyone who is the victim of such an offence, or who witnesses it, to tell an officer as soon as possible so we can offer support and gather the best evidence,” she added.
“Once again this year, the charity Safer Spaces will be setting up zones to provide a place of rest or refuge for women and girls.
“Anyone who, for whatever reason, does not feel comfortable approaching an officer can seek support from the Safer Spaces team.”