2,000‑Strong Rave Turns Ugly as Police Come Under ‘Missile’ Attack

A huge illegal rave involving around 2,000 people descended into violence over the Easter weekend as police officers were pelted with missiles while trying to shut the event down.

The unlicensed gathering erupted late on Saturday night near East Lulworth in rural Dorset, with more than 100 vehicles flooding into the area before midnight. Officers were called at 11.45pm and remained on scene throughout the weekend in an effort to bring the situation to a “safe conclusion”.

Officers attacked as they tried to disperse crowds

Dorset Police confirmed that officers faced a “violent and hostile reception”, with missiles thrown at them as they attempted to break up the rave.

Assistant Chief Constable Steve Lyne said:

“Violence in our communities and against our officers will not be tolerated. These events are illegal and cause significant disruption — and it is unacceptable that we are faced with violence while doing our job.”

Ten people were arrested on suspicion of offences including:

- Assaulting an emergency worker  

- Driving under the influence  

- Other public order and criminal offences  

Police also seized sound equipment under Section 64 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994.

‘Significant impact’ on residents and visitors

Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick thanked the local community for their patience as officers and partner agencies worked to disperse the rave.

He said:

“This has had a significant impact on residents and visitors. Authorities took swift, proportionate action as soon as it was possible. We will not tolerate unlicensed music events because of the risks they pose and the disruption they cause.”

Operation involved officers from across the country

Dorset Police confirmed that officers from other forces were drafted in to help manage the incident, which stretched resources across the region.

The force is now reviewing evidence from the scene to identify further suspects and offences.

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