GB News
Riot police came under a barrage of missiles while attempting to shut down an illegal Easter rave that drew roughly 2,000 partygoers to a field near East Lulworth in Dorset over the weekend. The unlicensed gathering, known as EggTek, began late on Saturday evening close to a British Army base, with more than 100 vehicles descending on the rural location. Officers donning protective gear faced what Dorset Police described as a "violent and hostile reception" from the crowd as they moved to break up the event. Footage circulating on social media captured attendees pushing against lines of shield-carrying officers while a police helicopter circled overhead. The annual illegal event saw revellers dancing to trance music from powerful sound systems that disturbed residents miles away. Dorset Police received reports of the gathering at approximately 11.45pm on Saturday and maintained a presence at the location throughout the entire weekend. Officers worked to bring the event to what the force termed a "safe conclusion" while facing hostility from attendees. Ten individuals were taken into custody on suspicion of various offences, including driving under the influence of alcohol and assaulting an emergency worker. LATEST DEVELOPMENTS: Families 'barricaded inside shops' as terrorising youths force London high street into lockdown Clapham locals fearful after ‘unsettling’ nights of chaos in London: 'You don’t feel safe!' Hundreds of balaclava-clad youths descend on Milton Keynes in echo of Clapham chaos One officer was directly attacked during the operation to disperse the crowd. Police confiscated sound equipment using powers granted under section 64 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, which allows authorities to seize audio gear at unlicensed music events. The operation involved support from officers drawn from forces across the country. Assistant Chief Constable Steve Lyne condemned the aggression directed at his officers during the operation. "While responding to the incident, our officers came under attack from missiles and faced a violent and hostile reception," he stated. He emphasised that such behaviour would not be tolerated, adding that unlicensed gatherings cause considerable disruption to local communities. "We must respond to ensure the safety of everyone and it is unacceptable that we are faced with violence while doing so," ACC Lyne said, confirming that investigators would continue examining evidence to identify further criminal offences. Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick expressed gratitude to local residents for their patience during the dispersal operation. He praised the coordinated response from Dorset Police and colleagues from other forces nationwide who helped resolve the situation safely. Mr Sidwick stressed that authorities would continue taking firm action against unlicensed music events due to the risks they pose. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
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