Violent Clash at Illegal Hammersmith Rave
Chaos erupted on the evening of Friday 3 July as police tried to break up an unlicensed music bash in Hammersmith and Fulham. Officers arrived to find a large crowd ignoring rules and quickly turned hostile.
Bricks Thrown, Officers Injured
Police tried to peacefully disperse the partygoers, but the crowd threw bricks and other missiles. Seven officers were hurt as they were forced to retreat and regroup. The violence only escalated when public order units moved in.
Legal Powers Activated to Restore Order
To tackle the unrest, authorities invoked a Dispersal Zone under Section 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014. A Section 60 order is also now in place, enabling officers to search and remove troublemakers swiftly.
Police Vow Zero Tolerance
“Officers have responded to residents complaining about a large gathering, noise, anti-social behaviour and violence,” said DAC Laurence Taylor.
“These gatherings are illegal and also pose a risk to public health. The violence shown towards officers this evening was totally unacceptable and we will not tolerate it in any form. Officers encountered bricks and other missiles being thrown at them. Our robust police response demonstrated that we will police incidents like these firmly and stop those intent on causing harm or disruption to our communities.”
The crackdown sends a clear message — illegal raves and violence will not be allowed to wreck neighbourhoods.
