Devon and Cornwall Police are planning to prevent and disrupt illegal raves over the busy May Bank Holiday
and are calling upon the public to help them, asking people to contact them with information at an early stage if they see any illegal gathering being planned or being set up in their community.
Officers will be patrolling potential rave sites due to the increased risk of illegal events as part of ‘Operation Derig’
Operation Derig is an intelligence-led initiative which sees partner agencies such as the National Park, Forestry Commission, Environmental Health, and Southwest Lakes Trust sharing information to prevent such gatherings.
Superintendent James Pearce said: “Historically a number illegal raves and unlicensed music events have been held over Bank Holidays. These events are illegal and will not be tolerated. These types of unregulated events are not only dangerous to those attending but cause disruption to people who live nearby.
“We will take positive action regarding criminal activity and identify and target organisers. We can seize any equipment associated with the activity and take positive action against those suspected of offences such as drink driving and drug possession.
“The Force has spent considerable time engaging with local communities which have been previously affected by illegal gatherings. We also appeal to members of the public to keep us informed to help disrupt any illegal raves as early intervention is key; accurate and timely information can allow us to close down an event before it has even started.”
Anyone with information about an illegal rave or gathering is asked to contact police by telephone on 101 or email at 101@devonandcornwall.pnn/police.uk
