Missiles thrown at police as illegal rave shut down

Missiles thrown at police as illegal rave shut down

During the dispersal of an unauthorized rave at a scenic location, police were hit with projectiles as they enforced the closure of the event. Dorset Police confirmed 10 arrests were made, with the gathering attracting approximately 2,000 attendees and over 100 vehicles. The incident began around 23:45 BST on Saturday, and officers remained active through Sunday evening to dismantle the rave, facing resistance from participants.

“Our officers encountered a violent and hostile response while addressing the incident,” stated Assistant Chief Constable Steve Lyne of Dorset Police. “Violence directed at our personnel will not be accepted. These events are unlawful and disrupt communities significantly—our actions are essential to safeguard public safety, and the use of force is justified when necessary.”

During the operation, police confiscated equipment and closed adjacent roads to control the situation. Those arrested faced charges such as operating under the influence and assaulting emergency staff. The Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick, acknowledged the community’s patience during the intervention, emphasizing the impact on residents and visitors.

“We appreciate the public’s support as authorities executed plans to end the event,” said David Sidwick. “Swift and measured action was taken immediately to mitigate risks. All participants, including officers from regional and national units, worked together to resolve the situation safely. Unlicensed music events pose threats to communities and must be addressed.”

Earlier instances of similar raves in Dorset include a 2023 gathering at Corfe Castle, which started on the Spring Bank Holiday Saturday and continued into Monday morning. In April 2022, another unauthorized rave with about 1,000 attendees occurred in East Lulworth, held on military land. A field near Corfe Castle in 2019 was left damaged, covered in glass, waste, and human excrement.

The Criminal Justice and Public Order Act empowers police to halt vehicles within five miles of a rave and prevent entry. It also mandates control over gatherings exceeding 20 people enjoying music at night, reinforcing the legal framework for such interventions.