Police shut down illegal rave in Bedminster as officers are assaulted

Four police officers were assaulted while attempting to shut down an illegal rave in Bristol. Two people were arrested by officers responding to reports about an unlicensed music event in Willway Street, Bedminster, on Saturday, November 16.

Around 200-250 people are estimated to have been at the illicit event when police arrived, shortly after 10.20pm. While most people had left safely by midnight, Avon and Somerset Police said, and the music system had been turned off, a small group of people remained until around 4am/

Neighbourhood Chief Inspector Keith Smith said some officers had objects thrown at them and were punched and spat at, while one was grabbed by her hair. In total, the force said four officers were assaulted and a police car was damaged.

A 28-year-old woman and 16-year-old boy were arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker. The woman has since been released on police bail and the boy was released under investigation.

Mr Smith said: “We recognise the significant impact these events can have on people living in the surrounding area and we responded quickly – and with significant resources – to minimise this.

“Some of the behaviour officers were confronted with was completely unacceptable. Officers were punched, spat at, had objects thrown at them and one was grabbed by her hair causing bruising. Welfare support is in place for them.

“Despite the aggression they faced, officers responded with utmost professionalism and were able to limit the impact on local residents.”