A dangerous unlicensed music event, which recklessly breached the Coronavirus regulations, was shut down last weekend with the event organiser being reported for a £10,000 fine.

Shortly after 9.30am on Sunday, 4 October, officers from the Met were called to Wythes Road, E16 following a number of concerns from local residents of anti-social and violent behaviour in the streets.

After arriving on scene, officers could hear loud music blaring from a derelict public house and saw more than 150 people crammed inside a hazardous and unsanitary hall within the building. Large music and DJ systems were also set up in one corner of the building.

Body worn footage from officers captures the moment they walk in, stunned by the number of people inside the property which unmistakeably breached the Coronavirus regulations designed to keep people safe.

Officers then dispersed the crowds and identified the event organiser, a 30-year-old man. He was reported for consideration of a £10,000 fixed penalty notice.

Sergeant Simon Biggs said: “When I arrived on scene, I couldn’t believe what I was seeing and was shocked by the event organiser’s blatant disregard for the safety of those there. This health crisis has claimed thousands of lives and people attending events such as this risk furthering the spread of this deadly virus.

“The conditions at this abandoned pub were awful, there was no running water, poor sanitary conditions, no social distancing measures and most of those attending were not wearing a face covering.

“In addition to the obvious threat of the virus, the building was also evidently in a serious state of disrepair. Water was dripping from the ceiling and there were a number of other hazards. After leaving, officers made sure to secure the building to prevent further access.”