Concerns about possible illegal raves in Montgomeryshire have been raised by Dyfed-Powys Police.

The force have asked the public of Powys to help them prevent illegal raves from setting up in the local area – and have particularly highlighted northern Powys in their attempts to do so.

It forms part of Operation Flamenco, which urges people living in rural communities – including farmers and landowners – to report anything suspicious to Dyfed-Powys Police.

This might include:

  • Unusual numbers of vehicles, especially camper vans, vans or trucks, seen in the locality.
  • Illegal trespassers may recce sites in advance of any rave.
  • People may approach landowners and ask around for land, in the guise of hiring it for acceptable activities such as gymkhanas or scout camps.
  • If you suspect anyone who approaches you for land hire might not be who they say they are, contact police.

Social networks make it easier for organisers to spread the word – rave attendance numbers can grow hugely in short spaces of time, and locations can change quickly.

Superintendent Jon Cummins, head of specialist operations for Dyfed-Powys Police, said: “We know raves can cause anxiety to the community they are held in, and if not dealt with swiftly are difficult to stop due to the sheer numbers of people involved.

"There is also a safety concern involved in breaking-up such events.

"And as we’re currently faced with the pandemic, it is absolutely crucial that these types of gatherings do not take place. Gatherings outdoors, which include members of more than two households (or more than two extended households) are still illegal, and you can be fined or prosecuted for participating in such a gathering.

“As a force, action is taken as soon as we gather any intelligence of an event being planned. We will continue to respond swiftly to reports of illegal gatherings, and where appropriate will prosecute those responsible in order to protect our communities. Officers will also be conducting proactive patrols of areas identified as possible sites for these types of gatherings."

He added: “These types of illegal events are carefully co-ordinated to avoid police attention, and organisers will always try to find new ways to avoid being found out.

“We rely on the support of communities to report any suspicious activity immediately, so action can be taken to disrupt illegal gatherings swiftly. And there has never been a more important time for us all to look out for each other, and report anything that seems suspicious."