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A huge rave that started in the early hours of Sunday at Neath Port Talbot is attended by up to 3,000 people according to police.
Residents of Banwen village say they have stayed awake since 1 a.m. when crowds began to gather in a nearby forest.
Hundreds of young people have reportedly arrived in the area, leaving illegally parked cars and blocking roads throughout the town.
A resident told WalesOnline that he feels like a “prisoner” in his own home as the youths are “obviously under the influence of drink and drugs” and could be seen sleeping on the benches in the village this morning.
South Wales police officers are present and estimate that there are some 3,000 people “from across the UK”. Chief Superintendent Simon Belcher said officers were “looking at all the laws to determine what actions can be taken safely” and said the force’s helicopter was present.
“This type of illegal gathering is totally unacceptable and we are aware of the concerns it is causing in the local community,” he added.
It comes as the government of Wales has implemented new legislation that allows organizers of illegal raves to be fined up to £ 10,000.
The new rules went into effect just before the banking holiday as in an effort to suppress illegal gatherings as the coronavirus pandemic continues.
Do you live in the area? Do you have photos or videos from the rave? Get in touch by sending an email to [email protected].
Live updates on the incident:
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