Coronavirus: Police shut down huge house party in South Mimms

Hertfordshire Constabulary were called to reports of a large number of vehicles parked near a property in Blanche Lane, South Mimms, at around 8pm (Wednesday January 13).

Inside the property were around 150 people, along with music equipment such as amplifiers and a DJ set which was seized.

A van in the area was also searched and inside, police found a large quantity of alcohol.

A Section 35 dispersal order was authorised giving police powers to clear the area.

So far, 12 £200 fines have been issued while the organiser of the "completely unacceptable" event faces a £10,000 fine.

One person was arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer.

This equipment was seized by police. Credit: Hertfordshire Constabulary

The party took place just a short distance away from The National Institute for Biological Standards and Control's headquarters.

The centre in South Mimms has been and continues to carry out independent laboratory testing of approved UK Covid vaccines to ensure that every batch of the vaccine meets the expected standards of safety and quality.

Music equipment was found at the event in South Mimms. Credit: Hertfordshire Constabulary

Reacting to the unlicensed event in South Mimms, Inspector Kio Bozorgi said: "This is completely unacceptable behaviour given the current climate, and I would like to take this opportunity to reassure the community that action is being taken.

"Not only is there the threat of contracting and spreading coronavirus, these types of events are dangerous for all attendees as there are no health and safety precautions, no risk assessments, no crowd control measures, medical staff or security provision on site.

"Anyone found organising an event such as this one, which clearly breaches the current restrictions, can expect to receive a £10,000 fine."

Equipment seized in South Mimms Credit: Hertfordshire Constabulary

Inspector Bozorgi warned: "To anyone who is considering breaking the rules in this manner, please think about the impact your actions have on others: not only are you risking spreading the virus, you are also causing a nuisance to nearby residents and local communities, and undermining the efforts of others who have sacrificed so much this year to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.

"Blatantly ignoring the restrictions sets the nation back on our difficult journey to return to a sense of normality. Please do the right thing and follow the clear guidelines."

Figures released by the National Police Chiefs Council this week revealed Hertfordshire Constabulary issued 380 fines to people between March 27 and December 20 for breaches of coronavirus laws.