Organisers of illegal raves could face £10,000 fines
Organisers of illegal raves in England could face a £10,000 penalty as authorities clamp down on unlawful gatherings during the coronavirus crisis.
In July, the Metropolitan Police revealed that more than 500 illegal events were organised across London in just one month.
Officers have responded to a surge in unlicensed music events in recent weeks during warm weather, breaching coronavirus regulations on large gatherings.
Ahead of a further easing of England’s lockdown, Boris Johnson said that new fines are to be introduced for those hosting raves or other unlawful gatherings of more than 30 people.
No 10 sources said that fines for those responsible could be up to £10,000.
Home Secretary Priti Patel said she would not allow progress in tackling the virus to be undermined by “a small minority of senseless individuals”.
“These measures send a clear message – if you don’t co-operate with the police and if you put our health at risk, action will follow,” she said.
It comes after police forces promised to increase patrols of potential hotspots for raves in the coming weeks, while police chiefs are asking the public for their support in preventing the spread of Covid-19 in the summer months.
The National Police Chiefs’ Council said that social distancing was not being adhered to at many of the events, which were in breach of coronavirus regulations on large gatherings.
It said officers nationwide will engage with the public by explaining the current regulations in each area and encouraging people to return home.
Only as a “last resort” will police issue fines to those attending who refuse to listen and follow the measures, it added.
Commander Ade Adelekan, NPCC lead for unlicensed music events, called such events “unlawful and unregulated” and hosted “without regard for the safety of those attending” as he urged anyone considering attending a block party or rave to avoid doing so.
“It is vital that forces obtain information about any illegal events at the earliest opportunity,” he continued.
“As organisers are able to spread the word about these events quickly online, timely information about suspicious activity or plans enables forces to plan ahead and take effective action against them.
“To the organisers of this sort of activity, I strongly advise that you seriously consider the risks you’re creating for everyone in attendance and the wider community.”
The public have been “instrumental” in reporting information that has led to gatherings being dispersed or stopped from happening, Mr Adelekan said.
He added: “If such an event is taking place in your community and you fear it is in breach of regulations or is causing significant concern, please report it to police online or via 101.
“Only contact 999 in an emergency.”