Police close down unlicensed music event in Euston

Police have now closed down an unlicensed music event (UME) in Euston, making eight arrests in connection with the incident.   

Officers were called at just after 3.50 am Sunday, 1 September, to reports of a large gathering at a farm in the village.

Several police units were dispatched to the scene, where there were initially reported to be around 500 to 1,000 people present, with around 80 vehicles.

Officers directed those present to leave the site under a direction of Section 63 of the Criminal Justice & Public Order Act 1994 and by late morning some of the attendees had begun to disperse.

Just after 5pm officers took control of the music equipment and were able to fully close the event down. All of those who were in attendance have now left the site.

Eight people were arrested as follows:

  • One on suspicion of drug-driving, criminal damage and possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply
  • Two on suspicion of drink driving;
  • Three on suspicion of conspiracy to commit public nuisance;
  • Two on suspicion of possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply

They have all now been taken to Bury St Edmunds Police Investigation Centre for further questioning.

Two vans and a car were seized as part of the investigation along with various items of music and sound equipment, including five generators.

Chief Superintendent Alice Scott said: “This event was closed down following a large policing operation and the site was cleared as quickly as we were able do so, without any significant issues.

“We deployed a number of resources to the scene including the Roads and Armed Policing Team, drone unit, dogs unit and specially trained public order officers who are experienced in dealing with this type of event.

“Enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances leading up to the UME and to identify all those involved in its planning.

“Unlicensed music events like this can cause a considerable amount of disruption, causing widespread damage to the natural environment as well. As they don’t have to conform to any safety standards, they also put those who choose to attend at risk.

“I would like to thank the local community for their patience as we worked to close this UME down as quickly and safely as possible and reassure them that the matter doesn’t finish here and an investigation will continue into what has taken place.”

Anyone with information concerning the organisers of this UME should contact Suffolk Police, quoting CAD 50 of the 1 September 2024.

Website – https://www.suffolk.police.uk/tell-us

Phone – Call 101

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their online form: www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Please note in the event of an emergency you should always call 999