On the evening of Friday, 19th April, the Muggle spring carnival in Banchory was ruthlessly attacked by Death Eaters. The attack was not anticipated but the DMLE responded quickly and effectively. They swiftly regained control of the situation and managed to drive the Death Eaters away and on behalf of the entire country, I thank them for their diligence.
Whilst the exact motives behind the attack are still being investigated, it is apparent that a number of wizards and witches attended the carnival, which was featured in the Daily Prophet. The Ministry is confident that this mix of Muggle and magic fuelled the attack. As such, in order to protect the wizarding populace from being targeted for that reason again, Muggles are hereby no longer permitted to enter Diagon Alley. Members of the DMLE’s Patrol Force will be stationed at the Leaky Cauldron and throughout the streets of Diagon Alley to enforce this.
Furthermore, it has become apparent that our Aurors need a greater range of skills to protect both themselves and the public. Although they were successful in subduing the Death Eaters, many of them sustained horrific injuries and I for one will not permit that to happen to them again. Commencing Monday 29th April, all Aurors will be trained in the use of the Unforgivable Curses and will legally be allowed to use them against suspected dark wizards during combat and interrogation. I am sure you will all agree this is necessary step to better equip our Aurors, so that they can better defend you.
Rest assured that tragedy will not be forgotten, and it will not be forgiven. Those responsible will be brought to trial for their actions and justice will be enforced.