Fatal stabbing in Croydon in September 2023

Freedom of information request reference no: 01.FOI.23.032908

I note you seek access to the following information:

On 27/09/2023, Andy Brittain gave a press conference regarding the fatal stabbing of a young girl in Croydon. Could you please provide details of who the people are that were flanking him in either side for this announcement.

Also, please explain the logic of having them present

Decision

I have today decided to disclose the located information to you in full.

Please find below information pursuant to your request above.

The murder of Elianne Andam had a significant impact on the community in Croydon.
Some of our partners and members of the wider community had also been asked to speak to the press and therefore it was decided that it would be appropriate to hold a joint press conference.

Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain, local policing commander for south London, spoke alongside:
• Donna Murray- Turner – Safer neighbourhood chair in Croydon
• Croydon Central MP Sarah Jones
• Jason Perry, Mayor of Croydon

Other community members ranging from youth workers, to representatives from grassroots organisations were also present but did not speak. These were members of organisations that we have been working with to reduce youth violence across Croydon Borough, and these individuals were also playing a key part in reassurance to the local community and youth groups following the incident.

We felt it was important that we showed a partnership approach to dealing with the incident and wider activities in Croydon.

The press release we issued after the press conference can be read here:
Community and officers come together following murder of teenage girl in Croydon | Metropolitan Police.