Police raided an illegal rave at an industrial site in Swanley that was attended by up to 500 people.

Twelve people aged 17 to 41, including teenagers from Orpington and Gravesend, were arrested after officers were called to Mark Way in Goldsel Road at 12.18am on Sunday (August 5) after reports of a "large group of people causing a disturbance".

Officers seized event equipment and made the dozen arrests on suspicion of drug possession, criminal damage, theft and public nuisance offences.

Detective Superintendent Ann Lisseman, from Kent Police, said: "Although unlicensed music events in Kent are thankfully rare, they can cause a number of issues, including damage, noise, and disorder.

"They attract large numbers to unoccupied properties which can cause safety issues for those attending, especially if the building has not been maintained.

‘In this case, it was a new building, and sadly for the owners a large amount of damage was caused during the event.

‘We urge people to only attend lawful and licensed music events and ask parents to ensure they know where their children are and make them aware of the potential dangers and consequences of attending unlicensed events.

‘I hope that the message following this recent event is clear: We recognise the detrimental effect unlicensed events can have on a community, we do not tolerate disorder and we will take action against anyone who breaks the law.’

Kent Police liaised with the British Transport Police to ensure the attendees, the majority of whom came from outside Kent, could leave the area safely on the first available trains and the site was cleared by 7am.