Arrests made and sound equipment seized at unlicensed music events in Bristol and South Gloucestershire
Police respond overnight to multiple illegal gatherings across the area
Last updated 2nd Jan 2026
Police officers dealt with three unlicensed music events across Bristol and South Gloucestershire, resulting in arrests and the seizure of sound equipment.
Hundreds of people were found attending events in Aztec West, St Phillips and Purdown yesterday (1 January). Police acted swiftly to block access to these locations, preventing further attendees, dispersing crowds, and bringing the events to an end.
Aztec West
A warehouse party at Aztec West was reported to police at 10.45pm, with an estimated attendance of 400-500 people. Officers established a cordon to limit the event’s size, leading to the majority of people dispersing by 3.30am.
One person was arrested on suspicion of multiple offences, including drug-driving, drug possession, and supply. Two vehicles containing sound equipment were also seized.
St Phillips
At 11.15pm, officers arrived at an industrial site in St Phillips, finding around 400 people present. Feeder Road was closed to stop more people from joining the gathering.
Police reported that items were thrown at them and their vehicles near the scene. Two suspects tracked by a drone operator were arrested, and investigations are ongoing.
Purdown
The third event was reported at 2.25am in Purdown, with an estimated attendance of at least 100 people. Officers engaged positively with those organising the gathering, resulting in the music being switched off and the site being vacated by 5am.
Superintendent George Headley commented on the operations, saying that additional resources ensured they could respond promptly and thanked the public for reporting the events.
“We know some people accuse us of trying to stop people from celebrating New Year’s Eve, but that is absolutely not the case," Headley said.
“We want people to have a good time; what we don’t want is people’s safety being put at risk.
“Last night several people who attended these events at unsuitable and potentially dangerous locations ended up requiring medical treatment, either for injuries they sustained or in some cases suspected drug-related illnesses.
“Throwing items at police officers and driving while under the influence of drugs is also totally unacceptable, and something the public would expect us to take a strong stance against.
“Officers’ hard work throughout the night means those suspected of committing crimes find themselves starting 2026 by waking up to the very real and sobering prospect of being investigated and prosecuted.”