Illegal rave in Ballaigues draws 800, leads to 8 arrests and farmer complaints

Eight people were arrested after an illegal rave drew up to 800 people to a Swiss pasture, prompting complaints from the landowner commune and the shepherd. Police detained an organizer and a DJ and issued about 20 fines for vehicles blocking emergency access. More than 120 vehicles and nearly 500 attendees were checked, with around 80 officers mobilized over two days. Police said forced evacuation of hundreds of people, some under the influence, could cause panic or confrontations, so dialogue was preferred. Farmers cited a "lack of respect" for drought-stressed land.