Group throw objects at Sheffield police officers as they attempt to break-up car meet near Meadowhall
Officers were abused while attempting to disrupt a car meet near Sheffield’s biggest shopping centre.
Last weekend (April 6), police responded to a car meet at Meadowhall Retail Park when they were met with hostility.
While car meets - where enthusiasts gather to showcase their cars - aren’t illegal in the UK, police have warned that they can often lead to anti-social behaviour like races that in the worst case results in roadside accidents and potential fatalities.
At the incident in Meadowhall, participants turned violent upon the arrival of police and ended up throwing objects at vehicles.
Two drivers had their cars seized as they had previously been given warnings and 11 drivers received traffic offence reports.
South Yorkshire Police have said they are not working to spoil people’s fun, but have seen a rise in these type of events and are working to protect the public.
Roads Policing Inspector Matt Collings said: “In recent weeks we have seen car meets descend into South Yorkshire and pose a risk on our roads, taking our officers from other policing duties to respond and intercept, in a bid to protect those in attendance and the wider public.
“We understand people want to meet, and share their passion for cars, but risking people’s lives is not acceptable.
“We often hear how we are ruining driver’s fun but we have seen the reality of what can happen; our officers are the ones who respond, investigate and have to deliver news to families.
“Officers are doing their duty, their duty to keep everyone safe and should not be threatened with violence or put in fear for their safety; this level of behaviour is appalling.
“Remember we have a range of tactics available to us if you decide to descend into South Yorkshire this weekend.
“In addition to our enforcement, we can share details with your insurance provider which can lead to your insurance being invalid or premiums being increased.
“All we are asking is that you are sensible, respectful and work with us to keep everyone safe.”