Eight arrests after 100 drinkers barricade themselves in Liverpool pub
Officers had beer thrown at them when they arrived to break-up a group in the early hours of Monday morning.
Monday 22 June 2020 23:52, UK
Eight arrests were made after up to 100 drinkers barricaded themselves into a Liverpool pub.
According to the police, officers had beer thrown at them when they arrived to break-up a group at the Britannia Hotel pub in the Vauxhall area of the city, in the early hours of Monday morning.
More than 100 people were reported to be inside when the police were called at 12.30am, playing loud music and causing a disturbance.
One woman and seven men, aged between 21 and 33, have been arrested for violent disorder and drug-related offences.
Pubs have been closed since the end of March, but Matt Hancock, the health secretary, told Sky's Sophy Ridge On Sunday programme that new rules such as wearing a face covering or ordering drinks on an app could help them re-open soon.
Detective Inspector Phil Atkinson, of Merseyside Police, said: "This is appalling behaviour and saddens me to see officers being put at risk from those flouting government guidelines.
"Restrictions have been eased but by no means is this pandemic over and nor should we treat it like it is.
"Regardless of the current climate, throwing things at officers will never be accepted. Eight people were arrested and prosecution is likely.
"If government advice had been followed, we wouldn't have had to attend this gathering and our resources could have been better used elsewhere."
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He continued: "I hope those who both hosted and attended this event think twice about their actions and will avoid these gatherings in the future.
"In regards to the premises licence, officers have been in conversations with the landlord, premises licence holder and council.
"The premises licence has been surrendered this afternoon. I hope this also shows others in this industry that we will actively seek closure orders or reviews where necessary and those responsible will face punishment.
"Anyone with information on those hosting or attending these unlicensed events should contact us at @MerPolCC or contact @CrimestoppersUK anonymously."