Teen among five arrests after cemetery stabbing

A 16-YEAR-OLD boy was among five people arrested following a reported stabbing at a Cardiff cemetery, police confirmed yesterday.

The arrests were linked to three separate incidents in the Ely and Fairwater area of the city on Monday.

Armed police were called to Ely’s Western Cemetery, on Cowbridge Road West, at 12.30pm.

Four men, aged 20, 24, 31 and 44, and a boy aged 16, were in police custody yesterday.

South Wales Police said officers were investigating a series of incidents and made arrests for violence, disorder and assault.

Following the altercation at the cemetery – between individuals who are believed to have been known to each other – there was a reported disturbance outside Ely Sports and Social Club, a mile-and-a-half further up Cowbridge Road West, at 3.45pm.

Another incident then occurred near Fairwater Police Station where South Wales Police said a “scene was established”.

Police have said no damage was done to the police station and the scene was just nearby.

It is believed that all of the incidents were linked.

As reported in yesterday’s Echo, the Welsh Ambulance service said three people were taken to hospital with what were believed to be nonserious injuries.

A spokesman said two people were taken to the University Hospital of Wales in the city while another was taken to the Royal Glamorgan Hospital at Llantrisant.

In a statement, South Wales Police said: “At approximately 12.30pm, officers were called to Western Cemetery to reports of a disturbance between a group of individuals who are believed to be known to each other.

“Police units attended, including firearms officers as a precautionary measure, and order was restored at the location which was then monitored by officers.

“At 3.45pm, another disturbance was reported outside the British Legion on Cowbridge Road West.

“Additionally, a scene has also been established near Fairwater Police Station. “Each of these incidents are being linked – and police are increasing visibility patrols to reassure the local community.”

Detective Inspector Debbie Brown said the majority of the altercations were in full view of local people and encouraged people to come forward.

Speaking on Monday, she said: “There has been lots of police activity in the area which would have concerned people but I would like to reassure them that a full investigation is underway.

“Much of what has taken place has been in full view of the public so I would urge people to come forward.

“Anybody with information should contact South Wales Police via 101 quoting reference 215646 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”