Police injured as they uncover illegal Lambeth nightclub
Around 60 people were at the venue
Two police officers were injured after uncovering an illegal club in Lambeth.
Around 60 people were at the converted pub basement in Lambeth Road on Sunday
There was a a sound system, dancefloor, a fully stocked bar and security on the door.
Class A drugs, laughing gas canisters, fireworks, alcohol, and the sound system were all seized after police and Lambeth Council officers jointly raided the premises.
Under the current Covid-19 roadmap out of lockdown, legal nightclubs cannot open until at least June 21.
Two people were arrested for public order offences and assault on an emergency worker.
A spokesperson for the council said:
“The security refused to cooperate with police and entry was forced where the officers witnessed around 60 partygoers and no social distancing.
“They also found the bar area, supplies of alcohol and a sound system inside the converted basement.”
He said a number of people became “hostile and aggressive” towards police and “several officers received minor injuries”.
Most attendees fled the scene.
The council placed a closure notice on the venue, while an investigation is underway to uncover more about the venue and to trace the legal owners.
Councillor Jacqui Dyer, Lambeth’s deputy leader and cabinet member for jobs, skills and community safety said:
“This is an extraordinary example of the commitment shown by Lambeth Council, the police and our partners to protect our residents.
“Venues such as these are illegal, unlicensed and can pose a serious risk to the safety of neighbouring residents as well as those who attend.
“They often lack fire safety precautions or basic first aid and lack the safeguards required of licensed, legal venues.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has not gone away. Mass gatherings involving 60 people, inside a small space with no social distancing is totally unacceptable.
“Unfortunately, two police officers were hurt during this enforcement action
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