Kent Police Swamped as Weekend Emergency Calls Soar by 25%
Kent Police faced a barrage of nearly 4,000 emergency calls over a frantic three-day period from Friday 7 to Sunday 9 October 2022. The surge in 999 calls stretched officers to the limit, including a dramatic crash incident late on Friday night.
Dramatic Crash and Drink-Drive Arrest
Shortly after 11pm on Friday, a woman involved in a serious collision was found unresponsive. An attending constable administered CPR, reviving her before she was rushed to hospital. Police arrested the driver on suspicion of drink driving. He has been released pending a full investigation.
Series of Serious Incidents Rock Kent
- Knife Assault in Dartford: At 2am on Saturday, armed officers responded to a stabbing in Kirby Road where a woman was attacked with a knife. Andrzej Kitrys, 35, was charged with attempted murder and remains in custody. His next court date is 7 November at Woolwich Crown Court.
- Weapons and Cannabis Arrest in Canterbury: Firearms officers swooped on Montgomery Gardens after reports of a man carrying weapons. Maximillian Bujalski, 19, was nabbed and charged with possessing an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear, threats to property, assault, and cannabis possession. He was bailed and faces Canterbury Crown Court on 7 November.
Attack on Emergency Workers Spike Worries Police
The weekend also saw 13 assaults against emergency responders, including police and ambulance crews. Four suspects are now charged, with five more released on bail pending investigation.
Superintendent Andy Gadd said: “The number of 999 calls was around 25% higher than normal, massively increasing pressure on our control room and officers. This was a particularly challenging weekend with several serious and tragic incidents.”
“People must remember to only dial 999 for genuine emergencies. Misusing the service delays help for those who need it most. For non-urgent matters, please use our online reporting portal.”
