'They not only illegal but dangerous too': Police in support of tougher fines over illegal raves

The move will apply to any unlawful gathering of 30 people or more and will act as a "deterrent" to keep people safe from the virus.

It comes after West Midlands Police had to break up more than 70 street and house parties and other unlicensed gatherings over the weekend.

And force leaders have welcomed the move – praising the Government for taking action to crack down on the crime and help curb the spread of the virus.

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Waheed Saleem said: "These raves are not only illegal but dangerous too.

• See the latest coronavirus news here

"They are often used by organised gangs to push drugs at, are often violent and in the West Midlands we’ve even seen a firearms discharge at one.

"As well as been breeding grounds for the virus, these raves are breeding grounds for crime too.

"Until these powers come in the punishment for organising an illegal gathering has been the same as not wearing a face mask.

"I’m pleased the government has listened and at last taking action. These new powers would have been very useful this weekend as we do all we can to get the virus under control in Birmingham and the West Midlands."

Chief constable Dave Thompson, who also welcomed the move, added: "We know it’s tough but events like these are dangerous events."

The measures will come into effect on Friday ahead of the bank holiday weekend, with fines of £100 issued to people involved. Those who have already received a fine will see the amount doubled on each offence – up to a maximum of £3,200.

'Disregard for safety'

Home Secretary Priti Patel said: "These gatherings are dangerous and those who organise them show a blatant disregard for the safety of others.

"I am pleased the police have already stepped up their response and I am giving them the tools they need to continue to keep us safe.

"We will continue to crack down on the small minority who think they are above the law."

Police in the West Midlands shut down around 80 raves the previous week – including one in the Black Country.

The force said said a large gathering involving more than 30 people was stopped at Wallace Road, Oldbury, on August 15.

That same weekend, about 300 people attended an unlawful music event in Hampton Street, Birmingham, that same night, where officers seized DJ equipment.

Elsewhere, about 200 people were dispersed in Hadfield Close, near Birmingham city centre. And dozens of house and outdoor parties took place where more 30 people attended.