Police break up illegal rave in city
POLICE disrupted an illegal seasonal rave, handing out fines and seizing equipment including a tent, speakers and lighting.
Officers were alerted to a gathering near Pontprennau on the outskirts of Cardiff, and found an unlicensed music event being staged in breach of coronavirus regulations.
Police said party-goers began to disperse when officers turned up – including a number who ran into nearby woods – but the details of those who remained were taken.
A number of vehicles were stopped near the event, and police subsequently managed to locate some of the party-goers who had run for the trees.
The dance party took place on the night of Sunday, December 27, with officers from South Wales Police and neighbouring Gwent Police taking part in the enforcement operation.
Police said about 25 people were reported for summons for breaching coronavirus regulations, while a tent and other equipment, including speakers, generators, a trailer and lighting rig, were all dismantled and seized by officers.
Inquiries are ongoing to identify other people who were at the rave, as well as the identity of the organiser – who faces prosecution or a £10,000 fine.
South Wales Police Chief Superintendent Andy Valentine, who is leading the force’s response to coronavirus, said it was “disappointing” that people were prepared to put themselves and others in the community at risk during the lockdown.
He said: “Unlicensed music events present a very serious risk to public health, as well as generating antisocial behaviour that can blight local communities. It is extremely disappointing that members of the public were willing to put themselves and the wider community at risk during Alert Level 4 restrictions.
“No-one can fail to be aware of the pressures now facing the NHS from Covid-19.
“The prompt actions of officers, as well as the support from our colleagues in Heddlu Gwent Police, led to the disruption of the planned rave and prevented any significant event taking place.”
Call South Wales Police on 101.