POLICE have issued a message to warn revellers that illegal raves will not be tolerated.Officers from Suffolk, Essex and Norfolk will once again be joining forces, together with partner agencies, to deter, prevent and disrupt illegal raves across the region, ahead of the final bank holiday of the summer.

POLICE have issued a message to warn revellers that illegal raves will not be tolerated.

Officers from Suffolk, Essex and Norfolk will once again be joining forces, together with partner agencies, to deter, prevent and disrupt illegal raves across the region, ahead of the final bank holiday of the summer.

They are warning anyone planning to organise such events that they will be dealt with robustly, facing arrest, the seizure of their equipment and the risk of a criminal conviction.

Superintendent Mike Shields from Suffolk Police said: “Our priority is the safety of the public. Illegal raves can put the lives of revellers and others at risk. We will seize every opportunity to prevent such events taking place, and organisers should be aware that we will deal swiftly with those trying to break the law and put lives and property at risk.

“Our message is clear: Your property may be seized, you will be liable to arrest and we will do all we can to ensure a successful prosecution.”

Police are appealing for the public to be vigilant, and to contact them immediately if they see any activity that could potentially be linked to an illegal rave as such events often cause distress to residents. Raves might include large convoys of cars grouping together in car parks, or vans and trucks suitable for transporting sound equipment making their way onto rural sites.

Landowners are also being reminded to take extra care that entrances to their property are secured and to report immediately any trespassers onto their property who may be people intent on holding a rave. Early information is vital to help police prevent a rave from taking place, and the subsequent dangers they present.

Supt Shields added: “Often, the organisers have not made the necessary arrangements to ensure the health, safety and security of attendees and there are no measures in place to deal with risks such as fires.”

Anyone who has information about an illegal rave should contact their local police force or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

For Suffolk, people should call 01473 613500, in Essex, the contact number is 01245 491491, and in Norfolk telephone it is 0845 4564567.