By Daniel Wood
West Yorkshire Police have released details concerning two arrests over an unlicensed music event in Huddersfield area on Saturday night, which 300 people attended.
Kirklees Criminal Investigation Department (CID) are continuing to investigate the incident on the evening of Saturday, August 22nd in which people gathered at an igloo style tent with a sound system in Deighton.
Officers arrested two Huddersfield men aged 29 and 42 yesterday (August 25th) on suspicion of public order offences concerning a breach of COVID-19 legislation regarding public gatherings.
The two men remain in custody for questioning over the alleged offences.
Officers dispersed the large crowds present at the unlicensed event after they were deployed there on Saturday night.
As the police arrived, the music was quickly turned off, and the officers present had the right to seize any sound equipment from the location.
Officers were allegedly pelted with missiles as they busted the huge gathering and thankfully none of the officers were injured.
A spokesperson said: “On Saturday evening, officers deployed to an illegal rave that was taking place in Deighton, Huddersfield.
“When officers arrived, there were around 300 persons present many of whom were hostile, and missiles were thrown at the officers.”
The spokesperson also noted that the officers were met with applause from the residents in the area.
Kirklees residents who have been stuck in local lockdowns have branded the 300 ravers in Huddersfield as ‘idiots’.
Responding to the police’s Facebook post regarding the illegal rave, one woman said: “Well done WYP, this is what we need. Let those that are breaking the laws and flouting the regulations see that you are taking control.
“The regulations are here for a reason – these idiots are putting our lives in jeopardy.”
Another woman added: “It really does make you wonder what some people think is going on in this world.
“Many millions have gone nearly half a year without physical contact with loved ones, especially children, and these entitled idiots think this is acceptable behaviour in the middle of a pandemic when the local area has been put into localised restrictions.”
From Friday, August 28th, police in England will be able to fine organisers of illegal gatherings of more than 30 peoples such as raves up to £10,000.
Those who attend gatherings and those who do not wear face coverings where it is mandatory can be given a £100 fine, doubling on each offense up to £3,200.