NORFOLK and Suffolk police have issued a stark warning to anyone planning to organise an illegal rave in the county this weekend.There is a zero tolerance approach to such events, which are unsafe and disruptive to our local communities.

NORFOLK and Suffolk police have issued a stark warning to anyone planning to organise an illegal rave in the county this weekend.

There is a zero tolerance approach to such events, which are unsafe and disruptive to our local communities.

They will be working closely with colleagues in Suffolk and will share information and provide additional police units to specifically target rave-goers or anyone suspected of involvement in the organisation of a rave across the two counties.

Chief superintendent Tony Cherington said: “I want to make it quite clear that we will use all necessary resources to prevent, disrupt and close down illegal raves in this county. We have issued this warning as we approach the Halloween weekend.

“We will continue to take a hard line against them and seek to prosecute and seize and destroy the equipment of anyone found to be involved in their organisation. We will be putting on a significant police presence this weekend to achieve our aims.”

Following the successful disruption of previous unlicensed music events, Norfolk Constabulary has again made arrangements with surrounding forces to share resources to disrupt or stop any such events.

Last weekend, following a rave in the Feltwell area, over 150 vehicles were stopped and a number of arrests were made for vehicle offences and drink driving. A large quantity of sound equipment, amplifiers and music was also seized.

Members of the public are also being urged to play their part and support police action by remaining vigilant over the coming days and by reporting any suspicious activity which may lead them to believe a rave is being organised.

Police across the county have been working very closely with landowners, the Forestry Commission and Farmwatch to offer security advice and ensure they contact the police at the earliest opportunity with information. Landowners are also being reminded to ensure the entrances to their property are secure and also to report any breaches suspected of being linked to a potential rave to police.

Mr Cherington added: “I'd like to remind people if they wish to set up a legal musical event for large numbers in Norfolk, they are welcome to get in touch with us and we will advise them on the measures that need to be taken.”

Anyone with information about an illegal rave or witness to suspicious activity on farmland or in buildings should contact Norfolk Constabulary on 0845 456 4567.