Massive Rave Shut Down After Police Two-Hour Stand-Off in Reading
More than 300 ravers were caught up in a dramatic police bust at an illegal party near The Reading Lake Hotel on Saturday night. After a tense two-hour stand-off, 50 officers swooped in to break up the unlicensed event in a field on Berry’s Lane.
Police Deploy Riot Squad and Helicopter to Break Up Rave
Thames Valley Police were called to the scene late on November 18 after complaints about the booming music and huge crowds. The force brought in armed officers, two dog units, and five vans full of riot squad officers wearing crash helmets and carrying batons and shields.
Even a police helicopter from NPAS Redhill joined the effort to monitor the unruly crowd. The rave-goers, many drunk or high on drugs, refused to leave and threw missiles at officers.
Ravers Cause Chaos on Motorway and Reading Services
As the standoff escalated, some attendees ran onto the M4 motorway verges, forcing police to impose speed restrictions and momentarily halt traffic in both directions. Nearby Reading Services was locked down, with exits blocked off by officers to contain the situation.
The trouble reportedly began after a local hotelier complained about the noise vibrating through guest windows. Hotel guest James Andrews said, “I noticed a large group of people at the bottom of the road, then around 10:15pm the helicopter started circling. The police had formed a human barricade with so many cars arriving. It was intense.”
Several Arrests Made as Police Restore Order
A Thames Valley Police spokesperson confirmed officers dispersed about 300 people and made multiple arrests. “An investigation into the incident will take place,” the spokesperson said. Those arrested were taken to Reading Custody Centre.
Despite threats and foul language from the DJ, officers maintained control and handled the chaos professionally. The rave that rocked Reading was finally shut down, ending a night of mayhem.
