A WILTSHIRE police officer is being investigated following an allegation of sexual assault relating to Sunday’s illegal rave.

Around 300 revellers from all over the country descended on Swindon for an illegal rave in the early hours of Sunday at an empty warehouse on the River Ray Industrial Estate.

Police stopped many from entering but the situation quickly turned violent, with four officers requiring medical treatment after having bricks and bottles thrown at them, while a number of partygoers were also hurt.

Yesterday, the force confirmed an officer was being investigated following an accusation.

A spokesman for Wiltshire Police said: “We can confirm that our Professional Standards Department are investigating an allegation of sexual assault against an officer which is reported to have occurred at the illegal rave in Swindon on Sunday, March 1.

“The matter is being referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission and as the investigation is ongoing it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.”

During the incident, the use of batons by police was authorised and police dogs were also used.

One reveller was treated after being bitten by a dog, while others suffered cuts to the head and another had his wrist broken.

Earlier in the week, Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson praised officers for their actions in dealing with the incident.

He said: “All the officers who were involved showed great bravery, being outnumbered by the people at this event. There is no excuse for the public to use bottles or bricks against the police.”

Wiltshire Police are still investigating the incident, with a 34-year-old from Cambridgeshire having been arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer and violent disorder.

A 22-year-old man from Suffolk, a 20-year-old woman from Suffolk and a 21-year-old man from Kettering were also arrested on suspicion of violent disorder.

A 20-year-old from Dunstable was arrested on suspicion of violent conduct but later released without charge.

Anyone with information relating to the rave is asked to contact Wiltshire Police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 .