Police have issued a fresh warning to people thinking of taking part in illegal raves in Lichfield and Burntwood.

It comes as officers made more arrests over a planned gathering this weekend.

A 21-year-old man from Darlaston and a 24-year-old man from Rugeley have been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to cause a public nuisance.

The younger man has been released on conditional bail with a curfew imposed and the older man remains in custody for questioning.

Chief Superintendent Carl Ratcliffe, from Staffordshire Police, said:

“I’m urging anyone who is considering attending an illegal rave to stop and think about the consequences.

“The force is aware that there are possible further illegal raves being organised in Staffordshire this weekend and beyond.

“There will be a dedicated policing operation in place, with a much higher police presence in potential hot spot areas.”

Ch Supt Carl Ratcliffe

He said coronavirus continued to be a major risk – and urged people not to attend the events as they were unlicensed and therefore unsafe.

“We will intervene in incidents and seek to prosecute anyone who has taken part in any illegal activity – whether that be drug supply or public disorder and any violence.”

Ch Supt Carl Ratcliffe

The continuing enforcement follows action taken to prevent a rave in Chasewater last weekend where 13 arrests were made, and an illegal rave near to Lichfield the week before where 1,000 people turned up.

“We want to warn young people of the significant risks posed by such events and keep our communities safe.

“To those thinking about attending or organising such events – you will face enforcement action and could receive a criminal record.

“Do not go to illegal raves and risk your lives.”

Ch Supt Carl Ratcliffe

Anyone who suspects an illegal gathering is being set up can contact Staffordshire Police via 101 or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

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