Gwent Police are asking residents to report any unusual activity which may be associated with illegal raves.

This could be in the form of large convoys of vehicles gathering near abandoned buildings or on private land late at night.

The appeal follows Gwent Police breaking up two events last weekend.

A rave, known also as an unlicensed music event, refers to a large group of people setting up a music system at a location to play loud music for an extended period of time.

Often occurring on private land and late at night, raves can cause serious disruption to nearby residents due to the loud music, while events can frequently be linked to further offences such as anti-social behaviour, criminal damage and substance misuse.

Officers received a report of an unlicensed music event on Mynydd Maen, near Abercarn, at around 6.40am on Sunday July 19, where around 20 people were in attendance.

A 27-year-old man from the Ebbw Vale area was arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled drug of class B, while musical equipment and five vehicles were seized by officers. He received a caution for the possession offence.

Officers also attended an unlicensed music event on private land in Hollybush, near Tredegar, on Saturday, July 18, bringing the rave to a conclusion by negotiating with the event organiser. No arrests were made nor items seized.

In line with existing powers and to ensure the safety to those attending an unlicensed music event and those in the vicinity, officers can close the event to prevent any escalation, seize equipment and prosecute organisers.

Superintendent Glyn Fernquest, of Gwent Police’s operational support unit, said: “It is a common misconception that legal raves exist. Every single event of this type is illegal and therefore prohibited at any time of the year.

“This is not the case of the police wishing to stop people enjoying themselves; arranging an unlicensed music event is an offence and officers also have powers to seize equipment.

“As we continue to move forward and lockdown restrictions ease gradually, we continue to ask our communities to follow the Welsh Government guidance, stay safe and be mindful of the current rules in place.

“Officers will be out and about on patrol across all force areas to protect and reassure our communities.”

There are several common signs that indicates a rave may be taking place.

These include: an unusual increase in road traffic; vehicles carrying sound equipment and large gatherings of people late at night near to warehouses, open areas or abandoned buildings.

You may also notice social media activity advertising that a rave is due to take place and its suggested location.

If you notice any of these signs, or any other unusual activity, please notify Gwent Police as soon as possible by calling 101, 999 in an emergency, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Alternatively, you can send a direct message to the force’s Facebook or Twitter social media accounts.

Anyone who wishes to hold a music event should obtain a regulated entertainment licence from their local authority.