Woolwich Prepares for Potential Rave Blitz
Police are gearing up for a possible unlicensed music blowout on Woolwich Common tonight. In response to tip-offs about a looming illegal rave, authorities have slapped on a Section 35 Dispersal Order.
What’s the Section 35 Dispersal Order?
The order, running from 5pm today (Friday, February 16) until noon tomorrow, gives cops and PCSOs the power to kick troublemakers out of the area for up to 48 hours. Greenwich Police have mapped out the zones locked down under this law.
Section 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 targets anyone aged 10 or over suspected of stirring up trouble or likely to cause public alarm, distress, or disorder. Police only need “reasonable grounds” to believe someone’s behaviour threatens local peace to act.
Cracking Down Before Chaos Hits
The move is a pre-emptive strike aimed at shutting down potential anti-social antics linked to the rumoured music bash. A Greenwich Police spokesperson said,
“The S35 dispersal power will be used by Police Officers and designated PCSOs to deal with individuals aged 10 or over engaging in anti-social behavior or crime and disorder—not just after it happens, but also when it’s likely to occur.”
They confirmed that intelligence suggested an unlicensed music event was on the cards, prompting the clampdown.
With extra police muscle in place, Woolwich Common is braced to keep the peace and prevent any chaotic parties from overrunning the neighbourhood.
