Ten people have been arrested on suspicion of offences including drink-driving and assaulting an emergency worker at an illegal Easter weekend event near East Lulworth
Police faced a barrage of missiles at a massive illegal rave in Dorset during the Easter weekend.
The gathering, near East Lulworth, drew approximately 2,000 revellers and more than 100 vehicles on Saturday (April 4).
Dorset Police were alerted at around 11.45pm and stayed at the scene throughout the weekend to ensure the event reached a ‘safe conclusion.’
Ten individuals were detained for offences including drink-driving and attacking an emergency worker.
Officers also confiscated equipment under section 64 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, reports Devon Live.
Videos have appeared on social media showing several ravers dancing around while holding balloons.
Assistant Chief Constable Steve Lyne of Dorset Police said officers encountered a violent and aggressive response.
He said: “While responding to the incident, our officers came under attack from missiles and faced a violent and hostile reception.
“Violence in our communities and against our officers will not be tolerated. These types of events are illegal and cause a significant disruption to communities – we must respond to ensure the safety of everyone and it is unacceptable that we are faced with violence while doing so.
“We will continue now to review evidence from the scene to identify any further offences committed and detailed enquiries will be carried out.”
Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick stated: “We would like to thank the local community for their understanding while the police and local agencies put in action plans to disperse the event.
“This has had a significant impact on residents and visitors and the authorities took swift, proportionate action, using powers available to them, as soon as it was possible.
“I would like to thank everyone who was involved in this policing operation, including officers from Dorset Police and elsewhere across the country, who worked together to bring the incident to a safe conclusion.
“We will not tolerate unlicensed music events because of the increased risks they present and the impact they have on our communities and those visiting the area.”
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