Defiant Gym Owner Arrested as Police Raid Illegal Wych Elm Workout Spot
Officers stormed The Ripped Gym in Wych Elm, Harlow, after social media posts revealed it was flouting coronavirus laws by staying open. When police arrived on Thursday 5 November, the gym was still buzzing with customers.
Owner Refuses to Cooperate, Arrested on the Spot
Police tried to get details from the owner to slap on fixed penalty notices but she refused. As a result, she was arrested under The Health Protection (Coronavirus) Regulations 2020 and is currently in custody for questioning.
Ten gym-goers received fixed penalty fines. Meanwhile, Harlow Council wasted no time issuing a prohibition notice, demanding the gym shut its doors immediately.
Strong Words from Police and Council
“We will not tolerate those who commit clear and blatant breaches of the legislation that has been put in place to keep people safe,” said District Commander Chief Inspector Natalia Ross.
“Many local businesses have made sacrifices to keep customers safe. We engage with residents and businesses to explain regulations but will take tough action when necessary.”
“The vast majority are following the rules and helping to keep the virus at bay, which has devastated so many,” she added.
Harlow Council leader Mark Ingall slammed the gym’s blatant defiance. “We warned them of the restrictions and asked them to close this morning. After today’s events, a prohibition notice was unavoidable.”
He praised Essex Police and local teams for their enforcement efforts, stressing that compliance protects lives and the NHS. “We can’t allow any business to break the law while others play by the rules,” he said.
How to Report Covid-19 Breaches
Residents are urged to report Covid-19 breaches carefully to avoid misunderstandings. You can report concerns online or chat live from 7am to 11pm at Essex Police Digital 101 service.
