Missiles thrown at police as illegal rave shut down

Missiles Thrown at Police as Illegal Rave Shuts Down

Dorset Police faced resistance from attendees as they worked to dismantle an unauthorized rave event at a popular natural site. The gathering, which attracted approximately 2,000 individuals and over 100 vehicles, was reported to have begun around 23:45 BST on Saturday. Officers operated through the night to disperse the crowd, eventually closing nearby roads and seizing equipment during the process. Ten arrests were made, with charges including public intoxication and assaulting an emergency worker.

Officials Condemn Hostile Actions

“Officers encountered a violent and hostile response as they responded to the incident, with missiles being hurled their way,” said Assistant Chief Constable Steve Lyne. “Violence in our communities and against our officers will not be tolerated. These types of events are illegal and cause significant disruption to residents and visitors—our actions are necessary to ensure public safety.”

Community Support and Legal Powers

Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick acknowledged the community’s cooperation during the operation. “Expressing gratitude to the community for their patience during the operation, the Police and Crime Commissioner highlighted the efforts made by police and local agencies to disperse the gathering. This has had a notable effect on local residents and visitors, prompting swift and proportional action as soon as possible.”

The Criminal Justice and Public Order Act provides authorities with the authority to intercept vehicles within a five-mile radius of such events and to halt gatherings exceeding 20 people listening to music at night. This legal framework supports the force’s ability to address unauthorized events that disrupt public order.

History of Unauthorized Raves

Dorset has seen multiple instances of illegal raves, including one in May 2023 at Corfe Castle, where officers continued to remove participants into the following Monday. Earlier in April 2022, a similar event took place in East Lulworth, held on military land. In April 2019, a beauty spot near Corfe Castle was left in disarray after attendees discarded glass, waste, and human excrement across the area.