Arrests made as illegal rave at Yate warehouse is shut down by police
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Eight people have been arrested after police shut down an illegal Halloween rave in Yate.
It is estimated up to 700 people attended the unlicensed music event which lasted around 17 hours.
Officers first attended the warehouse on Millbrook road at 10.30pm on Saturday (31 October) and had cleared the building at 3.10pm on Sunday (1 November).
A dispersal notice was issued and roads were closed around the industrial estate but large numbers of people continued to arrive on foot.
Some officers were injured when crowds became hostile to police throwing bottles and lighting spray cans.
The power source to the building was cut off but an alternative one was found and used. Neighbouring police forces were called in to help bring the event to a close.
A total of eight people have been arrested, including a man in his 30s on suspicion of being involved in organising the event.
Police are now examining body camera and drone footage.
Chief Inspector Mark Runacres said: “Our priority is always to protect the safety of the public and officers have acted with skill and bravery today to bring this unlicensed event to a safe conclusion.
“These sorts of police operations are incredibly difficult to manage as we seek to bring those responsible to justice, while ensuring public safety.
“Anyone organising an unlicensed music event does so with no thought to others and to stage something of this nature at a time when COVID-19 cases are rising in the South West will rightly make those making sacrifices incredibly angry.
“Officers and staff will continue to examine footage captured on body worn cameras and drones in the coming days to allow appropriate action to be taken against those responsible."
Anyone with evidence and information has been asked to call 101 and quote log number 1369 of 31 October.
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